Workforce Reduction

Microsoft announced its second major workforce cut this year, eliminating approximately 9,000 jobs (under 4% of its workforce) to streamline operations, with controversy erupting over revoked unvested stock awards from laid-off employees. Former Xbox developer Noble Smith criticized the policy as stripping potential family education funds, sparking debate on compensation ethics during layoffs. Analysts note competitors sometimes accelerate vesting as goodwill, while Microsoft’s stock clawbacks amid record share prices could save hundreds of millions. The dispute underscores tensions between cost-cutting measures, employee retention, and transparency in equity-based compensation models across the tech sector.

Microsoft announced a second major round of job cuts this year, potentially impacting up to 9,000 roles across departments, geographies, and levels. This move aims to streamline operations and reduce costs amidst increasing AI infrastructure expenses and broader industry trends of workforce adjustments. These cuts represent less than 4% of Microsoft’s global workforce.

Duluth Trading Company (DLTH) announced a workforce reduction of 51 positions (3% of its workforce) on June 4, 2025, to streamline operations. The move aims to optimize the business model, sharpen brand messaging, and improve the customer experience. The company, known for durable workwear and humorous marketing, caters to a hands-on lifestyle through online, catalog, and retail channels. Anticipated costs are less than $1 million.