Silicon Valley embraces the ‘996’ work culture

The infamous “996” work culture from China’s tech industry, which refers to working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week, is gaining traction in Silicon Valley as companies strive to increase their dominance and productivity.

Fintech firm Ramp recently found that corporate credit card transactions in San Francisco restaurants and takeouts rose on Saturdays, hinting that more people are working at the desk instead of downtime.

The punishing schedule is resurfacing as a badge of ambition in California, with some startups hinting at 70+ hours workweeks in job postings. Several tech employees have taken to X and LinkedIn to tout their long working hours and the career benefits they offer.

With billions being poured into AI, analysts say the financial gains for those willing to grind could be significant.

The 996 is gaining traction amid companies announcing mass layoffs and tightening work conditions, including enforcing return-to-office mandates and cutting unlimited paid time off.

Historians note that Silicon Valley has long cloaked its workaholic culture as “California casual” on the outside. Sociologists point out that tech companies pressure workers to be constantly available, and that individuals with caregiving and other personal life responsibilities often struggle to devote sufficient time, which may negatively impact their careers.

Notably, China banned 72-hour schedules in 2021 after a 22-year-old woman’s death spotlighted the toll of overwork.