The US economy's 'Low Hire, Low Fire' era appears to be coming to an end, and it's a development that warrants our attention.
As of November 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM UTC, we've witnessed a series of significant corporate moves that have raised eyebrows among economists. Starbucks Corp., in a bid to restructure and regain its footing, let go of 900 corporate employees in September, following a previous round of cuts in February. Target Corp. wasn't far behind, eliminating 1,800 roles in October to expedite its turnaround.
But here's where it gets controversial: each of these decisions has a seemingly valid rationale. Amazon.com, for instance, attributed its 14,000 corporate job cuts to the integration of artificial intelligence. Paramount, fresh from a merger, trimmed its workforce by 1,000. And Molson Coors, facing declining beer sales due to health-conscious consumers, had to let go of 400 salaried employees.
On the surface, these events might appear unrelated. However, when viewed collectively, some economists are beginning to sound the alarm. They fear that what we're witnessing is not just a series of isolated cost-cutting measures, but rather a broader trend that could signal trouble ahead.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the numbers. It's about the potential impact on the broader economy. When major corporations start shedding jobs, it can have a ripple effect, impacting everything from consumer spending to the job market as a whole.
So, what does this mean for the future of the US economy? Are we on the cusp of a new era, or is this just a blip on the radar? These are questions that economists and analysts will continue to grapple with.
What are your thoughts? Do you think these corporate moves are a cause for concern, or are they simply a natural part of the business cycle? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!