Corporate workforce reductions in the U.S. dropped sharply in December 2025, with companies canceling over 120,000 planned layoffs, according to revised labor data. Hiring intentions for early 2026 point to a rebound in employment growth across tech, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
- Over 120,000 planned U.S. layoffs were canceled in December 2025.
- December layoff intentions dropped to 38,000, down from 185,000 in Q2 2025.
- PG&E plans to extend operations at Diablo Canyon, supporting 1,200 permanent jobs and 600 construction roles.
- Intel and Tesla are adding 9,500 U.S. jobs by mid-2026 in tech and clean energy sectors.
- Job openings reached 8.7 million in December 2025, signaling strong labor demand.
- U.S. unemployment rate remained at 4.1% in December 2025.
A significant reversal in U.S. corporate workforce trends emerged in the final month of 2025, as companies canceled more than 120,000 previously planned layoffs. This marks a decisive shift from the widespread workforce reductions seen throughout much of 2024 and early 2025. The latest data shows that the number of intended layoffs fell to just 38,000 in December, down from a peak of 185,000 in Q2 2025. The trend reflects growing confidence among employers amid stable inflation, resilient consumer demand, and strong performance in key industries. Notably, energy firms such as Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) have announced expanded operations at the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant, extending its operational license pending final regulatory review. This development is expected to support over 1,200 permanent positions and an additional 600 construction and maintenance jobs through 2027. Tech and manufacturing sectors are also driving renewed hiring momentum. Major firms including Intel Corp. and Tesla Inc. have confirmed plans to add 9,500 new roles in U.S. facilities by mid-2026, with a focus on advanced manufacturing, semiconductor production, and clean energy infrastructure. These moves align with federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act. The labor market’s resilience is now underpinning broader economic optimism. Job openings in December reached 8.7 million, up from 7.1 million in September, while the national unemployment rate held steady at 4.1%. Analysts suggest that sustained hiring could help avoid a recessionary downturn and support continued Fed rate stability through 2026.