Survey reveals that 99% of CEOs now expect AI-driven layoffs — companies are racing to replace junior workers with AI, even as many executives remain uncertain about the returns on AI investments

Surveys from Mercer and Oliver Wyman show most CEOs expect AI to cut headcount soon, especially in junior and entry-level roles.

Companies are already slowing junior hiring and reducing entry-level positions as automation expands.

Despite heavy AI spending, many executives still cannot prove the technology is delivering the productivity or revenue gains they expected.

The findings point to a widening gap between AI-driven workforce cuts and unclear returns on AI investment.