Navigating Retrenchments in Singapore
From Big Tech giants slashing headcount to the recent news of GovTech retrenching staff, retrenchments in Singapore are hitting multi-quarter highs. According to data released by Ministry of Manpower, 4,500 employees were laid off in the second quarter of 2026. This was the highest figure since the fourth quarter of 2020. Back in 2020, we were facing pandemic. Thus, I can rationalize the high retrenchment figure back then. However, the latest retrenchment figure really drives home reality on the ground.
When even statutory boards and public sector functions streamline operations, it proves no job is truly an “iron rice bowl” in today’s context. Of course, you can also face retrenchment due to performance issues or shifting corporate priorities. Whatever the cause, losing your job is traumatic—especially in Singapore, where social status and identity are so closely linked to our careers. In this context, I am under no illusion that my job is safe.
Lately, I have been visualizing the scenario of being retrenched and stress-testing my family’s financial situation in the event of being laid off.
SG Wealth Builder has always advocated maintaining a 3 to 6-month emergency fund as your primary defense during a sudden layoff. Beyond relying on that initial cash buffer, here are practical moves to stretch your runway and protect your financial baseline:
- Cut non-essential spending immediately.
























