Microsoft launched voluntary exit program for up to 60,000 staff as AI spending rises
Microsoft said in a memo on October 29 that it was offering a voluntary exit package to eligible employees in the United States, Canada, India and the United Kingdom, covering up to 60,000 staff as the company expands its artificial-intelligence operations. The program, first reported on October 26, would affect roughly a quarter of Microsoft’s global workforce and was presented as a cost-cutting measure while the firm redirects spending toward AI. Microsoft later extended the offer to its Indian workforce, giving employees there until Dec.
1 to decide. Chief financial officer Amy Coleman said the company expected fewer than 3,000 workers to take the buyout, citing strong growth opportunities.