> The reason I'm suspicious of these claims is because there's no empirical evidence to support them.
Really? Let's go one by one.
1. "Cuts are companies preparing for recession. We are long overdue for a down cycle and every indicator says its here or on its way." - we are indeed overdue for a down cycle. COVID could have been that but it was short lived due to massive stimuli. And all the traditional indicators (like yield curve, fed's statements) are pointing towards a recession (empirical evidence, as you ask).
2. "Workers increased salaries were passed to consumers. No problem until consumers stop purchasing. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/UMCSENT" - there is empirical evidence right there in that line.
3. "In a recession cash flow is everything. For most companies labor is the largest variable element of cash flow." - first part is objectively true. No cash flow, no viable business. And for second part, just go read the 10-Q's. It has labor costs spelled out.
4. "Wages don't go down. Not that they cannot, they just don't. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/ECIWAG" - again, GP is cognizant of possibilities and says so. And also provides evidence.
What are you really objecting to?