Forecasts suggest 2026 is unlikely to see mass layoffs directly caused by artificial intelligence, but experts warn AI will reshape job roles and slow hiring as firms reassess workforce needs. Employers are expected to prioritise retooling existing staff and investing in training to capitalise on AI tools, creating a potential ‘rush’ for upskilling programmes across sectors. The shift could produce short-term hiring freezes or more cautious recruitment, while raising questions about skills mismatches, labour-market inequality and the speed of public and private training responses.