Google expands buyout offers to five countries amid AI spending cuts

Google is extending a voluntary employee buyout programme to five countries as part of a broader cost-control effort. The expansion comes as the company contends with rising spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure and development. Employees in affected regions are being offered severance packages to reduce headcount without formal layoffs.

The initiative reflects pressure on major tech firms to manage expenses while maintaining investment in AI capabilities. Voluntary buyouts are a way for companies to trim workforce costs while giving staff the option to leave with financial incentives.