Tech layoffs have been brutal this year. They're likely going to get worse.

"“As our chart shows, layoffs totaled around 81,700 in the first quarter alone, the highest quarterly figure since early 2023, before adding about 20,000 more in the first six weeks of the second quarter,” the report says, attributing the major restructuring to investment in artificial intelligence."

"“Overall, it's a ‘sharp reversal’ from 2025, when layoffs stayed lower at ‘around 27,000 to 37,000 per quarter,’ the report continues.”"

"“The current trajectory suggests the sector may be entering another period of restructuring, with 2026 already on track to rival the scale of layoffs seen in previous downturns,” the May Statista report says."

"“I think there's an unspoken bias,” Brian Creely, a tech recruiter and career coach, previously told SFGATE, referring to the attitude toward laid-off workers. Despite their competence, he said that some executives referred to them as “damaged goods” a"

Tech companies have cut thousands of jobs worldwide, with data indicating layoffs are accelerating. More than 100,000 tech layoffs have already occurred this year, nearly matching total 2025 layoffs and exceeding two-thirds of 2024 layoffs. Layoffs totaled about 81,700 in the first quarter, followed by roughly 20,000 more in the first six weeks of the second quarter. The restructuring is attributed largely to investment in artificial intelligence. The current pace is described as a sharp reversal from 2025, when quarterly layoffs were lower. The trajectory suggests another restructuring period in 2026, potentially rivaling earlier downturns. Laid-off workers may face long-term unemployment and reduced hiring prospects.

Read at SFGATE