Recent layoffs at Oracle and Adidas have renewed concerns among India’s mid-career professionals about job security. However, there is no evidence that companies are using 45 as a fixed age for layoffs.
The bigger issue is the changing nature of corporate jobs. AI, automation, cost-cutting and restructuring are pushing companies to rethink teams, roles and management layers. Higher salaries and senior positions can also become factors during organisational changes.
Oracle’s workforce reductions have reportedly affected teams in India, while Adidas has confirmed cuts within its India Technology organisation. Neither company has publicly confirmed all reported figures.
Globally, technology layoffs have also remained significant. According to Layoffs. fyi, 128,536 technology employees across 299 companies had lost their jobs by September 10, 2026.
For professionals in their 40s, losing a job can carry greater financial pressure due to home loans, children’s education and responsibilities towards parents. Finding another position at a similar salary and seniority can also be challenging.
Experience remains valuable, but it may need to be combined with updated skills. As AI changes traditional roles, professionals who continuously learn new tools and adapt to changing business requirements may have more options.
The concern, therefore, is less about turning 45 and more about staying relevant in a rapidly changing job market.