US layoffs reach 20-year high in October: 10 companies that cut thousands of jobs

October 2025 saw a staggering 153,074 job cuts, the highest in over two decades, driven by AI adoption and cost-cutting. Major tech and retail giants like Amazon, UPS, Intel, and Target announced significant layoffs. This surge, a 183% jump from September, signals deepening labor market concerns and a stark contrast to hiring trends.