Just after affirming that AI will not replace humans, Microsoft suddenly laid off 9,000 more employees

Microsoft is laying off about 9,000 employees, about 4% of its global workforce. Unlike previous cuts, this one isn't focused on any specific region, but rather across multiple teams, roles, and countries. The decision continues a years-long trend of job cuts at Redmond. Most recently, Microsoft terminated 6,000 employees in May, then cut another 300 jobs in June.

The main reason given by Microsoft is to reduce the layers of management between senior leadership and the product/service teams. The company believes the move will help them operate "more efficiently and flexibly." A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed to CNBC: " We continue to make the organizational changes necessary to position the company and its teams to succeed in a dynamic market ."

The paradox between statements and actions

Notably, while Microsoft has repeatedly asserted that AI is not a threat to jobs, the reality is that thousands of positions are still being eliminated on a regular basis. While the specific role of AI in these layoffs is unclear, the coincidence creates a major paradox.

Microsoft isn't the only tech giant to continue its layoff trend this year. Autodesk, Chegg, and Crowdstrike have all made aggressive cuts this year. By reducing headcount, companies can appeal to investors who are concerned about high operating costs in a volatile global economy.

David Pac

Update 03 July 2025