Mastercard Posts Strong Q4 Earnings, Announces 4% Workforce Cut

Mastercard (MA) reported better-than-expected Q4 2025 earnings on January 29, 2026, driven by resilient consumer spending, but simultaneously announced a 4% global workforce reduction and a $200M Q1 restructuring charge. Adjusted net income hit $4.3B ($4.76 EPS), surpassing estimates of $3.83B ($4.25 EPS). Q4 revenue rose to $8.81B vs. $8.78B expected; full-year revenue reached ~$33B, up 16% YoY, aligning with guidance. CEO Michael Miebach cited sustained macroeconomic support for spending. CFO Sachin Mehra confirmed the job cuts follow a strategic review, though affected departments remain undisclosed. Separately, Trump’s proposed 10% credit card rate cap poses indirect risk if banks tighten lending. Shares rose post-earnings but are down 4.6% over 12 months. Mastercard and Visa continue negotiating a $200B merchant fee settlement.