Tech firms push longer working hours to compete in AI race

Growing pressure to innovate quickly has revived long-hour work culture in tech, raising concerns about burnout, health risks, and declining productivity beyond sustainable weekly limits.
Fierce competition in AI is driving start-ups to demand extreme working hours, sparking debate over productivity, employee wellbeing, and whether hustle culture delivers lasting business success.

Tech companies competing in AI are increasingly expecting employees to work longer weeks to keep pace with rapid innovation. Some start-ups openly promote 70-hour schedules, presenting intense effort as necessary to launch products faster and stay ahead of rivals.

Investors and founders often believe that extended working hours improve development speed and increase the chances of securing funding. Fast growth and fierce global competition have made urgency a defining feature of many AI workplaces.

However, research shows productivity rises only up to a limit before fatigue reduces efficiency and focus. Experts warn that excessive workloads can lead to burnout and make it harder for companies to retain experienced professionals.

Health specialists link extended working weeks to higher risks of heart disease and stroke. Many experts argue that smarter management and efficient use of technology offer safer and more effective paths to lasting productivity.

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