Opens in a new tab

Breaking news

Meta Reduces Workforce By 10% As It Shifts Spending To AI

Meta is reducing its workforce by 10%, affecting approximately 8,000 employees, according to Bloomberg. The move is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reallocate resources as the company adjusts its cost structure.

Implementation And Immediate Impact

An internal memo circulated on Thursday said the layoffs will take effect on May 20. In parallel, Meta will halt recruitment for around 6,000 open positions. The scale of the restructuring was also reported by Reuters, highlighting the breadth of the company’s cost-cutting measures.

Balancing Cost And Innovation

Janelle Gale said the decision reflects an effort to improve operational efficiency while continuing to support key investments. She noted that the company is balancing cost reductions with funding for priority areas, underscoring the trade-offs involved in the restructuring. The workforce reduction comes despite the contributions of affected employees, as Meta shifts resources toward segments expected to drive future growth.

Strategic Investment Shift

Meta has increased spending in recent years, particularly on metaverse initiatives, while also accelerating investment in artificial intelligence. As returns from metaverse projects have remained below expectations, the company has placed greater emphasis on AI development. The rollout of its updated AI product, Muse Spark, reflects this shift, as Meta seeks to strengthen its position in a competitive technology environment.

Looking Ahead

As Meta implements these changes, attention will focus on how effectively the company balances cost control with continued investment in growth areas. The restructuring signals a more disciplined approach to spending, with resources being redirected toward technologies expected to deliver longer-term returns.

Web Summit 2026 Brings 70,000 Participants From 164 Countries To Lisbon

Around 70,000 people from 164 countries attended this year’s Web Summit in Lisbon, with China sending its largest delegation to the event so far. More than 50 representatives from the country’s artificial intelligence and robotics sectors took part, reflecting China’s growing presence in technologies reshaping manufacturing and services.

Founded in Dublin in 2009, Web Summit moved to Lisbon in 2016 and has since developed into one of Europe’s major technology conferences. The event brings together start-ups, investors and industry leaders, providing a platform for companies to present new technologies and explore business opportunities.

This year’s gathering also highlighted China’s expanding influence in the global technology industry, a trend noted by Web Summit founder Paddy Cosgrave.

Storm Charles Interrupts Conference Programme

The summit’s schedule was disrupted on November 11, when Storm Charles forced organisers to cancel activities for the day. The programme resumed on November 12, allowing the event to conclude as planned.

Despite the interruption, this year’s Web Summit highlighted several key developments shaping the technology sector, including advances in robotics and automation, intensifying international competition and continued demand for platforms connecting businesses with investors.

For Lisbon, the conference remains an important international technology gathering, bringing together companies and decision-makers while showcasing innovations moving towards commercial application.

Aretilaw firm
eCredo
Uol
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter