Microsoft prepares first voluntary employee buyout in 51 years and reshapes stock rewards

Managers may stop linking stock to cash bonuses soon

Microsoft is reportedly set to conduct its first voluntary employee buyout in its 51-year history. The company is also changing how it grants stock for annual rewards, according to the report. Instead of requiring managers to tie stock directly to cash bonuses, Microsoft plans to separate these incentives—signaling a shift in internal compensation strategy.