China's 996: AI Startups' Controversial Work Culture

The 996 Grind: Is 72-Hour Workweeks the Future of US Tech? **Would you trade your weekends for a billion-dollar company?** Many US tech startups are betting you will. They're embracing the brutal "996" work schedule – 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week – a trend born in China and now sweeping across Silicon Valley. Are you ready to find out why? The Rise of the 72-Hour Workweek The 996 work culture, originally from China, sparked massive protests and accusations of modern-day slavery. Images of exhausted workers fueled outrage, painting a grim picture of relentless pressure and burnout. But across the Pacific, a different story is unfolding. Fueled by a cutthroat race for AI dominance and echoing Elon Musk's "extremely hardcore" demands at X, US tech firms are embracing the 996 model with alarming enthusiasm. This isn't just a fringe movement. Industry insiders confirm its rapid growth. Adrian Kinnersley, a seasoned entrepreneur and compliance expert, reveals, "It's becoming increasingly common. Many of our clients now screen candidates based on their willingness to commit to 996."

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This dramatic shift contrasts sharply with the post-pandemic focus on work-life balance. The pendulum has swung wildly from burnout prevention to an almost fanatical pursuit of relentless productivity. But why? What drives this intense work culture? Discover the answer below. The Allure of the 996 Lifestyle: A Gen Z Perspective Companies aren't struggling to find employees. In fact, some are actively cultivating a 996 subculture. Take Rilla, an AI startup with 80 employees, almost all working 996. They even provide free meals, all day, every day—even Saturdays! Will Gao, Rilla's Head of Growth, explains the appeal: "My generation, Gen Z, grew up on stories of Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. We see the 996 schedule as a dedication, a pathway to building something truly monumental." He uses Kobe Bryant's legendary work ethic as another example of extreme dedication. Is this a compelling narrative, or a dangerous justification? Read on to discover more... The Two-Tiered System: Are *You* 996 Material?

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Not everyone embraces the 996 lifestyle. Many companies are adopting a two-tiered system. Only high-performing, dedicated employees are expected to work those grueling hours. Fella & Delilah, a telehealth company, even offered a 25% pay raise and a doubled equity stake to entice employees into the 996 program. Only 10% accepted the offer. What does this reveal about the willingness of workers to dedicate themselves to this demanding lifestyle? Legal Risks and Global Implications: Is 996 Sustainable? While China has cracked down on the illegal 996 practice, the trend shows no signs of slowing globally. Venture capitalist Harry Stebbings even suggests it's not enough—some are aiming for "007," a 24/7 schedule with rotating teams. Stebbings highlights a striking difference: "Europeans seem shocked by the idea of weekend work!" Kinnersley sounds a cautionary note. He warns that many 996 companies are skirting US labor laws, potentially facing significant liabilities. California, the heart of the AI boom and a haven for employee-friendly laws, is ground zero for this potential legal minefield. Will the 996 model prevail, or will the legal and ethical concerns eventually halt its relentless march? The future remains uncertain, but the 996 careers website recently registered by Kinnersley suggests that the debate, and the demand, isn’t going anywhere.

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**Keywords:** 996, 72-hour workweek, startup culture, AI, tech industry, work-life balance, burnout, Elon Musk, China, US labor laws, employee rights, Gen Z.