Mass layoffs are sweeping across major global industries in 2025, with thousands of workers affected in technology, finance, aerospace, retail, and energy. The widespread job cuts are being driven by corporate restructuring, cost-reduction efforts, and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence on how companies operate. According to the World Economic Forum, 41% of global companies expect to reduce their workforce within five years due to AI integration. While roles in AI-related sectors like big data, fintech, and machine learning are projected to expand, many traditional positions are being eliminated or repurposed.
In the financial sector, BlackRock—the world’s largest asset manager—is reducing its workforce by around 200 employees to streamline operations. Jack Dorsey’s fintech firm Block is laying off 1,000 workers across its brands, including Square, CashApp, and Tidal. Similarly, Ally Financial is cutting approximately 500 jobs as part of a broader “right-sizing” strategy.
Technology companies are also facing workforce challenges. Automattic, the parent firm behind WordPress and Tumblr, is reducing staff by 16%. CEO Matt Mullenweg stated, “While our revenue continues to grow, Automattic operates in a highly competitive market, and technology is evolving at unprecedented levels.” Meanwhile, Microsoft is enacting another round of layoffs, affecting around 9,100 employees, with significant cuts expected within its Xbox division under Microsoft Gaming. Meta is conducting performance-based reductions, and Intel is cutting 15% of its Foundry workforce.
The aerospace industry is not immune. Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, is letting go of 10% of its staff to sharpen its focus on manufacturing. Boeing is also trimming about 400 roles from its moon rocket program, a move aligned with delays in NASA’s Artemis missions.
Retail is also feeling the pressure. Burberry is cutting 1,700 roles after reporting losses, while Kohl’s has reduced 10% of corporate positions in response to weak sales. Starbucks eliminated 1,100 corporate roles earlier this year.
Other companies announcing significant layoffs include Salesforce, Workday, Disney, GrubHub, PwC, Porsche, Sonos, and UPS. Most cite automation, market shifts, and efforts to boost efficiency as key reasons for downsizing.
As AI continues to reshape industries, businesses across sectors are preparing for a future that demands fewer but more specialized roles.
