Nearly 4 in 10 companies will replace workers with AI by 2026, survey shows

Group 1 - Companies are increasingly investing in and adopting AI tools, with nearly 30% already having replaced jobs with AI, and 37% expecting to do so by the end of 2026 [1] - AI adoption is projected to reshape the job market significantly over the next 18 to 24 months, leading to the displacement of routine roles and the emergence of new job categories focused on AI oversight and collaboration [2] - Economic uncertainty, trade policy, and AI are cited as primary reasons for hiring pullbacks and layoffs, with 39% of surveyed leaders having conducted layoffs in 2025 and 58% believing layoffs are likely in 2026 [2] Group 2 - High-salary employees and those lacking AI-related skills are at the highest risk for layoffs, with recently hired and entry-level workers also facing increased vulnerability [3] - Companies are moving towards leaner, tech-ready workforces, prioritizing cost efficiency and agility over traditional career pathways, prompting a need for professionals to reskill in AI and emerging technologies [4] - Soft skills such as adaptability and emotional intelligence are becoming increasingly important, alongside technical skills, for differentiating top talent in the future [4] Group 3 - Recent trends indicate that HR leaders have engaged in "serial layoffs," reflecting a shift towards reactive workforce management rather than long-term planning, which has negatively impacted morale and led to a loss of critical skills [5]