Global layoffs surge in 2025 amid AI disruption: See list of major companies laying off including Microsoft and Meta

In 2025, a wave of layoffs is hitting industries across the globe, particularly within the technology, finance, retail, and energy sectors. Companies are making significant workforce reductions as they adapt to a landscape increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. A report from the World Economic Forum indicates that 41% of businesses worldwide anticipate downsizing their staff over the next five years due to the advancements in AI technology. While some sectors, like big data, fintech, and machine learning, are expected to see job growth, many traditional positions are facing elimination or reassignment. For example, BlackRock, the largest asset management firm in the world, is cutting approximately 200 jobs to realign its resources. Meanwhile, Block, the fintech company founded by Jack Dorsey, is letting go of 1,000 employees across its various brands, including Square and CashApp. In a strategic move to right-size its operations, Ally Financial is reducing its workforce by around 500 positions. Automattic, the company behind popular platforms like Tumblr and WordPress, is also making significant cuts, reducing 16% of its staff. CEO Matt Mullenweg commented on the situation, stating, “While our revenue continues to grow, Automattic operates in a highly competitive market, and technology is evolving at unprecedented levels.” The aerospace sector is not immune either. Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, is laying off 10% of its employees to enhance its manufacturing focus. Boeing is set to cut 400 positions from its moon rocket program, a decision influenced by delays in NASA’s Artemis missions. Retailers are also grappling with challenges, as evidenced by Burberry’s decision to eliminate 1,700 jobs following a financial downturn. Kohl’s has similarly reduced its corporate workforce by 10% amid sluggish sales. Starbucks laid off 1,100 corporate employees earlier in the year, reflecting the broader trend. The technology sector continues to experience a mixed outlook. Meta is currently focusing on reducing its workforce by targeting “low-performers.” Intel is cutting 15% of its Foundry workforce, and Microsoft has announced multiple layoffs, with an additional 9,100 planned for July. The latest cuts appear to have a significant impact on the Xbox division, now part of Microsoft Gaming, although specific details on affected departments remain undisclosed. Salesforce and Workday have also made headlines by reducing their staff by more than 1,000 each, citing a shift towards AI-driven growth as a key factor. Other companies making cuts include Disney, GrubHub, PwC, Porsche, Sonos, and UPS, all pointing to operational efficiency, automation, and evolving market conditions as driving factors behind their decisions. As the trend of layoffs continues, companies are preparing for a future increasingly dominated by AI and economic uncertainty.