Microsoft offers 60,000 employees a severance package

Microsoft has offered a voluntary departure scheme to 60,000 employees, representing about 27% of its workforce. The program targets workers in Canada, India, the UK, and the US. HR chief Amy Coleman stated this is a new initiative for the company, aimed at helping employees focus on meaningful work and develop new skills. The company will present its quarterly results soon, having had around 223,000 employees at the end of June. Microsoft anticipates a lower uptake of this offer compared to a previous early retirement scheme. The company is also investing heavily in artificial intelligence, planning to spend $175 billion this year, necessitating cuts in operational costs to maintain shareholder profit margins.