Marc Benioff · "We’re in a tech winter, and it’s going to get colder before it gets warmer. Bu..."

*Bloomberg* interview on layoffs and economic downturn, 2023 · Checked on 3 March 2026

We’re in a tech winter, and it’s going to get colder before it gets warmer. But the best companies will use this time to focus on trust, customers, and long-term growth—not just short-term gains.

Analysis

The Bloomberg interview from February 2023 includes Benioff saying, "We're in a tech winter, and it's going to get colder before it gets warmer," and adding that the best companies will use the period to focus on trust, customers, and long‑term growth rather than short‑term gains. The phrasing matches the statement provided, confirming its accuracy.

Background

During early 2023, many tech firms announced layoffs amid a broader economic slowdown, prompting CEOs like Benioff to comment on the industry's outlook. Benioff framed the slowdown as a "tech winter" and emphasized strategic priorities for resilience. His comments were part of a broader discussion on how firms should navigate the downturn.

Verdict summary

Marc Benioff made the quoted remarks in a 2023 Bloomberg interview about a tech winter and the need for companies to focus on trust and long‑term growth.

Sources consulted

— Bloomberg, "Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff: We’re in a ‘tech winter’ and it will get colder before it warms up," February 2023 interview transcript.

— The Wall Street Journal, "Marc Benioff on the Tech Winter and Long‑Term Growth," March 2023 coverage citing Bloomberg interview.

— Business Insider, "Marc Benioff warns of a tech winter and urges companies to focus on trust and customers," March 2023 article referencing Bloomberg interview.