Microsoft profits soar days after announcing thousands of layoffs
The week, the Windows developer said it would offer buyouts to 60,000 workers as it looks to curb costs.
Microsoft's profits surged to over $36.6 billion for the three months ending September, marking a significant increase just days after announcing massive workforce reductions. In a bid to cut costs, Microsoft announced it would provide buyouts to approximately 60,000 employees, as it pours billions into AI infrastructure. Despite the layoffs, the company's shares saw a 2.9% rise in post-market trading.
Tech giants such as Amazon, Meta, and Alphabet are also planning to invest heavily in AI, with estimates suggesting their combined spending could exceed $700 billion this year. Microsoft reported a 19% year-over-year revenue increase to $92.3 billion, largely fueled by strong growth in its cloud computing segment. However, the company flagged potential challenges, including substantial investments in AI, which could impact its finances.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted AI's role in driving adoption and delivering real-world impact across industries. The company has also extended voluntary redundancy offers to eligible employees in multiple countries, aiming to adapt its workforce to changing needs. Microsoft's earnings were in stark contrast to Alphabet's disappointing results, with its shares falling by 9.75% following a 25% year-on-year dip in net profit and continued heavy AI spending.
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