IBM to layoff 16,000 ?

A message in an independent Web site for IBM employees states that IBM will announce 16,000 layoffs on Jan. 23, affecting workers worldwide. Similar predictions are made in other recent posts on the site, which is run by the Alliance@IBM/Communications Workers of America Local 1701, a union that is trying to organize IBM workers.


IBM has more than 386,000 employees worldwide, according to its Web site. If the rumored 16,000 figure proves accurate, then, it would equal roughly a 4 percent reduction in headcount.

Company spokesman Fred McNeese said Monday that IBM "does not comment on rumors and speculation."

The layoff rumors are swirling as IBM prepares to release its fourth-quarter 2008 earnings, which are expected later this month.