MICROSOFT OFFERS BUYOUTS TO 7% OF US WORKFORCE

The software giant extended buyout offers to roughly 10,000 US-based workers across multiple divisions. Eligible employees can choose to accept severance packages, which typically include extended benefits and financial compensation based on tenure. Microsoft has not disclosed specific details about package amounts or the deadline for acceptance. The company indicated that departments will continue operating normally during the voluntary departure period. This restructuring follows Microsoft's January 2023 announcement of 10,000 layoffs, representing 10% of global workforce. The current buyout program represents a shift toward voluntary separations rather than forced reductions. The move comes amid broader tech industry layoffs and cost-cutting measures. Microsoft cited changing business priorities and economic conditions as factors in workforce adjustments. The company has maintained strong revenue despite industry-wide challenges in cloud services and artificial intelligence competition.