Now Reading: Global tech layoffs top 1.63 lakh in 2026 as AI reshapes sector
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Global tech layoffs top 1.63 lakh in 2026 as AI reshapes sector
Global tech layoffs top 1.63 lakh in 2026 as AI reshapes sector
Global technology companies have announced 1,63,427 layoffs since the start of 2026, with AI cited as a factor in 91,215 of those job cuts, according to a report cited by IANS. Nearly…
The Story in Brief
Global technology companies have announced 1,63,427 layoffs since the start of 2026, with AI cited as a factor in 91,215 of those job cuts, according to a report cited by IANS. Nearly 88.6 per cent of enterprise software layoffs this year have occurred at US-based companies. Oracle has cut 25,254 roles since January and may announce another round this month, with managers asked to prepare job-cut lists before September 1, Times Now reports. The company's headcount fell by 21,000 in fiscal 2026, leaving 141,000 full-time employees. Cisco cut 4,000 positions, while Monday.com cut 20 per cent of its global workforce. Meanwhile, investors have rewarded companies like Cisco, Monday.com and ServiceNow after layoffs were framed as a shift towards AI.
The Indian Opinion
The narrative that AI-driven layoffs are a sign of corporate discipline is being pushed hard by companies rewarded by markets. Oracle cutting 21,000 jobs while raising $50 billion for AI infrastructure is not efficiency, it is a gamble that replaces people with machines and debt. Indian employees, especially in engineering and consulting teams, are being told AI makes them redundant. The real test will be the quality of service Oracle can offer with a smaller workforce. When costs are cut but customer complaints rise, the story will change.
Sources (2): hr.economictimes.indiatimes.com, timesnownews.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
