This month’s alternative data insights include the AI-washing of mass layoffs, consumer confidence, and an update on the Iran war supply shock.

Mass layoffs and AI-washing

Last month, layoffs and a shifting job market were top of mind for vendors across industries. In mid-May, Layoffs.fyi reported that 100k+ tech workers globally had lost their jobs so far in 2026, already close to the 124k layoffs recorded throughout 2025. In May 2026 alone, Intellizence reported 30k+ AI-related job cuts worldwide, which it said signals how AI automation and increasing AI investments are reshaping workforces.

FreightWaves reported 5k+ layoffs in the freight industry across the US in mid-May, linked to supply chain restructuring, softening industrial demand, contract losses and operational consolidation.

Meanwhile, looking at labour more broadly, Lightcast noted that labour shortages are threatening the US healthcare system, with more than five job openings for every unemployed worker. It reported that healthcare has accounted for around two-thirds of all US employment growth from 2024 to 2025, meaning that when discounting the industry, the US economy is losing jobs.