A recent study by Briefcase Index has revealed that the Information and Communications sector in Singapore experienced the highest retrenchment rate in the fourth quarter of 2025, at 0.270%. This rate is significantly higher than the average retrenchment rate of 0.115% across various industries, highlighting the sector’s workforce volatility.
The study, which utilised data from the Singapore Department of Statistics, ranked industries based on their retrenchment rates. Following Information and Communications, Financial and Insurance Services recorded a retrenchment rate of 0.222%, and Wholesale and Retail Trade came third with 0.173%. In stark contrast, the Construction industry had the lowest rate at 0.025%.
The Briefcase Index spokesperson noted, “With Information and Communications and Financial and Insurance Services leading the ranking, the data suggests that even sectors often associated with high-value, professional employment are facing meaningful workforce adjustment.” The presence of Wholesale and Retail Trade in the top three further indicates that retrenchment pressures are not confined to white-collar industries alone.
The findings align with reports from The Business Times, which observed heightened retrenchments among professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) in sectors like financial services and information and communications in 2025.
This study underscores a distinct divide in Singapore’s labour market, with some sectors experiencing significant retrenchment rates whilst others, such as Construction, remain stable. As Singapore navigates these workforce challenges, the insights from Briefcase Index provide valuable context for understanding industry-specific employment trends.
