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Epic Games Implements Major Workforce Reduction Amid Fortnite Downturn

Company Restructuring In Response To Market Headwinds

Epic Games has announced layoffs affecting around 1,000 employees, according to a memo published on the company’s website. The decision follows a decline in Fortnite engagement that began in 2025 and has since affected revenue.

Financial Adjustments And Strategic Cost Savings

CEO Tim Sweeney said the slowdown has pushed costs above revenue, forcing the company to reduce spending. Alongside layoffs, Epic Games has identified more than $500 million in cost savings across areas such as contracting, marketing and unfilled roles. These steps are aimed at restoring financial balance and stabilising operations.

Employee Support And Operational Impact

The company said affected employees will receive four months of severance pay, with additional support for those with longer tenure. Employees in the United States will also retain healthcare coverage for six months after leaving. Sweeney noted that the layoffs are not linked to AI or automation. However, broader market factors, including supply chain constraints such as limited RAM availability and higher chip demand, have affected consumer spending.

Context And Market Implications

Epic Games recently increased the price of its in-game currency, V-Bucks, citing higher operating costs. This move, combined with layoffs and other cost reductions, reflects a broader effort to adjust to changing market conditions. The company’s actions highlight pressure across the gaming industry, where companies are balancing growth with cost control.

Robust Cyprus Construction Activity Bolsters Vassilico Cement’s 2025 Performance

Vassilico Cement Works Public Company Ltd reported a net profit of €35.52 million for 2025, supported by strong construction activity in Cyprus. Company profit reached €34.99 million, reflecting higher revenues and improved operating performance.

Domestic Market Growth Driven By Cyprus Construction

Group revenue rose to €152.75 million, while company revenue reached €152.66 million, up 11% year on year. Growth was driven by increased sales volumes in the domestic market, where construction activity remained strong throughout the year.

Enhanced Production Efficiency And Cost Management

Gross profit increased to €50.30 million at group level and €50.21 million at company level, compared with €42.49 million in 2024. The improvement reflects gains in production efficiency and cost control, supported by higher use of alternative fuels and improved electricity efficiency. These measures reduced unit costs while supporting environmental targets.

Executive Insights And Macroeconomic Outlook

Executive Chairman Antonis Antoniou said strong domestic demand supported production volumes, with the company maintaining focus on the local market and managing exports selectively. He added that favorable economic conditions in Cyprus contributed to performance, despite regulatory pressures in Europe and broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Navigating Energy And Regulatory Challenges

Future performance will be influenced by energy market volatility and European climate policy, including carbon pricing and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Rising fuel and electricity costs continue to affect energy-intensive industries.

The company is expanding its renewable energy capacity, with a photovoltaic park reaching 16MW and plans for an additional 8MW, subject to grid connection. The investments aim to improve cost stability and energy efficiency.

Shareholder Returns And Strategic Investments

The board approved an interim dividend of €0.15 per share, totaling €10.79 million, on September 25, 2025. A final dividend of €16.55 million, or €0.23 per share, will be proposed. Combined, total dividends amount to €27.34 million, or €0.38 per share.

Management said the company will continue focusing on efficiency, cost control and sustainability as it navigates energy market pressures and regulatory requirements.

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