Why are Amazon, Intel, Microsoft and 17 others cutting 165,000 jobs now? A massive structural shift is hitting the U.S. corporate workforce in 2026
Published on: Jan. 22, 2026, 9:37 p.m. | Source: The Economic Times
A massive structural shift is hitting the 2026 job market. Amazon, Intel, and Microsoft have joined 17 other giants to cut over 165,000 roles. This is not a simple recession. Companies are trading human payroll for AI infrastructure. Intel is slashing 15% of its staff to save billions. Amazon is removing middle management layers. Microsoft is funding data centers through layoffs. This reset signals a permanent, tech-driven workforce evolution.
