J&J's potential 'game-changer' drug — plus, what Microsoft's mass buyouts mean

Johnson & Johnson's experimental prostate cancer drug, JNJ-6143, showed significant PSA level declines and tumor shrinkage in an early-stage trial. Among 31 patients, 77% had at least a 50% PSA reduction, and 69% had a confirmed tumor response. The drug was acquired through J&J's US$3.05 billion purchase of Halda Therapeutics. Common side effects included nausea and elevated cholesterol. Results were presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress.

Microsoft is offering voluntary buyouts to about 60,000 employees, or more than a quarter of its global workforce, to cut costs and fund AI investments. The offer, available in Canada, India, the UK, and the US, excludes certain units. Microsoft shares rose 1% on Monday. The company is expected to report Q1 results on Wednesday.

Johnson & Johnson reported a 75% response rate in its 50-mg Phase 1 trial for prostate cancer drug JNJ-6143, with 12 of 16 patients showing confirmed tumor responses. The company is advancing the drug to a Phase 2 trial, which began recruiting on Sept. 16. JNJ-6143 targets BRD4 and the androgen receptor, proteins linked to prostate cancer.

Microsoft announced a voluntary exit offer for about 60,000 employees, roughly 27% of its global workforce. The program, open until December, excludes certain teams and offers financial support and career resources. Microsoft reports earnings on Wednesday, with expected 2026 capital expenditures of $175 billion. The move follows previous layoffs and a voluntary retirement program, aiming to preserve margins amid AI infrastructure investments.

Microsoft offered buyouts to 60,000 employees in India, the US, UK, and Canada. The voluntary exit program targets employees at level 70 and below, providing financial compensation and career resources. This follows earlier layoffs and a voluntary retirement program. The company stated the move is to adapt to changing business needs, with participation varying by team.

Microsoft launched a voluntary exit program for eligible employees in Canada, India, the UK, and the US. The offer, available to staff at level 70 and below, varies by team and business needs. The Verge reported up to 60,000 employees may be eligible, with some teams excluded. This follows Microsoft's recent layoffs of 4,800 jobs, primarily in Xbox and sales.