AI-linked Layoffs Fail to Lift Stocks

CNBC analyzed 23 S&P 500 firms that announced workforce reductions explicitly tied to the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
As of May 15, 2026, 13 out of 23 companies, or 56%, were trading below the level at the time of their AI-related layoff announcements.
For those firms whose shares declined after announcement, the average drop was approximately 25%.
High-profile companies such as Nike, Salesforce, and Fiverr experienced significant share value declines following their respective AI-related staffing changes.
The findings suggest that publicly connecting layoffs to AI does not consistently lead to positive signals for equity performance.