CEOs Increasingly Cite Economic Headwinds to Deflect Blame for Layoffs and Poor Performance

"Economic headwinds" is a popular metaphor used by CEOs to shift blame for layoffs and other bad news to external factors beyond their control.

The phrase evokes helpless executives at the mercy of economic forces, when the reality is often outdated business models or poor management.

Use of "economic headwinds" has skyrocketed in SEC filings and the media alongside rising interest rates and inflation.

The metaphor fits a wider cultural feeling that the economy is unpredictable and uncontrollable compared to past eras.

Euphemistic language like this tempers negative market reactions, helping executives smooth over bad news with investors.