Dow to Cut 4,500 Jobs, Targets $2B EBITDA Boost Amid Chemical Sector Slump (DOW)

Dow Inc. (DOW) announced on January 29, 2026, it will cut approximately 4,500 jobs — over 10% of its 36,000 global workforce — as part of a restructuring plan targeting at least $2 billion in core EBITDA improvement by 2026–2027, with $500 million expected by end-2026. The chemical giant cited persistent weak demand and structural industry pressures, including stagnant end markets, rising European costs, and tightening environmental regulations. Dow plans to deploy AI and automation to streamline operations. One-time restructuring costs are estimated at $1.1B–$1.5B through 2027, including up to $800M in severance. Pre-market shares fell 0.61% to $27.61. CEO Jim Fitterling said the move accelerates prior cost-cutting efforts, including a previously announced $1B savings initiative. Q4 2025 loss narrowed to $0.34/share, beating estimates of $0.46.