Are layoffs like a fashion statement, now? "Look, we're cool, too!" why is everyone doing this at the same time?
- They are on venture capital, not profitable, and the process around IPO, being purchased, or getting more rounds of funding has been complicated by the downturn. So, they need to change their rate of burn to last longer.
- Companies are profitable and their leaders want to keep the profit margin for their owners (share holders). If income is down or doesn't grow to the level it had then they can lay off to reduce expenses which pushes up profit levels. This has become trendy in the past 40 years.
- Income has been reduced and companies are breaking in less money. They may no longer be making a profit. To return to break even (or profit) they need to lay off.
There are other reasons. These are some that come to mind.