# Microsoft disputes reported request for at least 20% Azure cost cuts

_Published Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 8:07 AM EDT · Products, Infrastructure · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![Microsoft disputes reported request for at least 20% Azure cost cuts — Primary](https://media.thenextweb.com/2026/10/microsoft-logo-office-building-curved-facade.jpg)

A senior Microsoft cloud executive asked team leaders to identify cost cuts of at least 20%, The Information reported, citing people familiar with the plans. Microsoft disputed the account, saying Azure leadership had not directed teams to develop cost-cutting plans.

The reported request came from Girish Bablani, who runs the group building software for Microsoft's cloud servers. Savings would help fund AI data centres and higher pay to retain employees courted by Meta and Anthropic. Possible steps include ending outside contractor agreements, but the measures remain under discussion.

## Sources

- [The Next Web](https://thenextweb.com/news/microsoft-azure-20-percent-cost-cuts-report)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/MVSrX0-XA3a7DEVS0Hf05l
Published: 2026-10-14T12:07:43.322Z
Story chronology: 2026-10-14T10:50:01.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-10-14T15:05:59.750Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)