I'm not sure why Google has to do a pay cut... it's pretty easy to just transfer someone and then give out below market raises for a few years if cost is really

I'm not sure why Google has to do a pay cut... it's pretty easy to just transfer someone and then give out below market raises for a few years if cost is really the main concern. My guess is that this a way for Google to promote some attrition. These companies are like cults in ways, they recruit younglings, feed, house and entertain them. They make all their friends at work etc... It can be quite traumatic to leave without having developed external networks and support systems.