economy

Job cuts plunge to a 2-year low despite AI fears, economic shocks

Updated on: August 6, 2026 / 11:24 AM EDT / CBS News

Job cuts plunge to a 2-year low despite AI fears, economic shocks

TL;DR

  • U.S. layoffs in July reached their lowest level in two years, with 33,429 job cuts announced.
  • This represents a 46% decrease from the previous year and is the lowest figure since July 2024.
  • Artificial intelligence is the leading cause of layoffs for five consecutive months, making up 33% of job cuts in July.
  • AI-related layoffs are concentrated in the technology industry.
  • The number of Americans filing for weekly unemployment benefits is also at a low, indicating a resilient labor market.
  • Hiring remains modest, and job openings are below pre-pandemic levels.
  • Entry-level corporate job listings have fallen 15%, while applications per job have surged 30%.