Layoffs in January reach recession-era levels

Job Cuts Overview - U.S.-based employers announced 71,321 job cuts in November 2025, marking a 24% increase from the previous year and the highest for November since 2022 [1][2] - January 2026 saw a significant rise in job cuts, with 108,435 announced, representing a 118% increase from under 50,000 in January 2025 and a 205% increase from 35,553 in December 2025 [4] Industry-Specific Job Cuts - The transportation industry accounted for 31,243 job cuts, primarily due to UPS's announcement of 30,000 layoffs following its split with Amazon [7] - The technology sector reported 22,291 job cuts, largely attributed to Amazon's plan to lay off 16,000 employees, with indications that over-hiring rather than AI technology is driving these reductions [7] - The health care industry announced 17,107 job cuts, the worst month since April 2020, influenced by inflation, high labor costs, and lower reimbursements from Medicaid and Medicare [8] - Chemical manufacturers reported over 4,700 job cuts, with Dow Inc. contributing significantly, marking the highest monthly total since February 2016 [8] Economic Outlook - The high number of job cuts in January suggests that employers are pessimistic about the economic outlook for 2026, with many plans likely set at the end of 2025 [3]