Tuesday 3 November
302 briefs · US Eastern time
- Global·Research
ILO report: 28.2% of enterprises globally had a woman CEO in 2025, up from 23.4% in 2013
An ILO report found 28.2% of enterprises globally had a woman CEO in 2025, up from 23.4% in 2013, and 45.5% had at least 30% women on boards, up from 38.3%. Women senior managers are concentrated in HR (62.5%) but under-represented in profit-and-loss roles (19.8%) and R&D (26.3%). The ILO warned of a "critical imbalance".
- Global·Research
AscentHR named Leader and Innovator for multi-country payroll by NelsonHall
Research firm NelsonHall named AscentHR a Leader in its Payroll Services 2026 – Overall and an Innovator for Multi-Country Payroll Capability. The assessment used NelsonHall's NEAT tool, which evaluates providers on market presence, immediate client value and technological innovation.
- United States·Policy & Law
Littler October IC legal update: call center settlement highlights sales worker classification challenges
Littler's October 2026 independent contractor legal update says last month's developments include another case involving sales representatives classified as independent contractors, including a call center settlement.
- Global·Research
ISACA survey: 76% of tech professionals satisfied with jobs, yet 65% would consider switching
ISACA's Tech Workplace and Culture 2026 report finds 76% of tech professionals are satisfied with their jobs, yet 65% would consider changing jobs within two years; the survey measures willingness, not actual resignations. Top reasons for leaving were career prospects (29%), pay (28%) and more interesting work (23%). Lack of a clear career path was the top obstacle: 33% of men, 41% of women.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Australia's High Court orders Uber to pay $81 million in payroll tax to NSW
Australia's High Court dismissed Uber's appeal and ordered it to pay $81 million in payroll tax to New South Wales on driver fares from 2015 to 2020. The court found fares paid to drivers are "wages" under payroll tax law. Uber warned of "significant unintended consequences" and urged states to update payroll tax laws.
- United States·Policy & Law
MSHA announces annual professionalism training for its inspectors
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) announced its inspectors will receive annual, comprehensive training on professionalism when dealing with operators in enforcement. The agency listed indicators of professionalism it expects inspectors to meet. A Fisher Phillips podcast discusses implications for mine operators.
- China·Policy & Law
Xuzhou housing fund center opens online app pre-application for renovation withdrawals
Xuzhou's housing provident fund center has opened online pre-application for renovation withdrawals via its mobile app. Staff will call applicants within three working days to arrange an on-site check. After approval, withdrawals must be made at a service outlet within six months of the renovation invoice date.
- Global·News
NICE lays off about 500 employees globally, 5% of its 10,000 workforce
NICE, the Israel-founded customer-service software company, is laying off about 500 employees globally, or 5% of its 10,000 workforce. CEO Scott Russell had earlier said there would be no workforce reduction in Israel. The company is looking to sell its Actimize unit while investing in AI, including a $1 billion acquisition of a German AI-agent startup.
- United States·Research
Forward-deployed engineers in demand, with pay reaching up to $1.5 million, WSJ reports
Forward-deployed engineers are in high demand, with compensation reaching as high as $1.5 million, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
- United States·News
Contract for 90,000 NYC municipal workers in AFSCME DC 37 set to expire Friday
The AFSCME District Council 37 contract covering 90,000 New York City municipal workers is set to expire Friday, per the World Socialist Web Site. It covers 30% of the municipal workforce. The expiring deal gave 3% raises for four years and 3.25% in the final year, with an $18 hourly wage floor.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan's MHLW holds Care Job Days at Hello Work offices nationwide Nov. 4–17
Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is running "Care Job Days" at Hello Work offices nationwide from Nov. 4 to 17, its welfare workforce recruitment priority period. Events include job interview fairs, employer briefings and consultations. Some events are open to people with no experience or qualifications.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
India's BMS reportedly to meet Nov 27-28 in Vadodara on EPS pension hike, wage ceiling
Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh national office-bearers are reportedly planning to meet in Vadodara on November 27-28 to discuss demands. Issues include higher pensions, wage ceilings and variable dearness allowance. Goodreturns says a rise in EPS pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 7,500 is under discussion; nothing has been confirmed.
- China·News
2026 Hangzhou-Wenzhou HR cooperation forum held in Hangzhou with over 50 attendees
The 2026 Hangzhou-Wenzhou HR cooperation forum was held in Hangzhou on November 3 as a sub-venue of the 14th Zhejiang HR Services Expo. Organized by Ruian's human resources bureau and the Zhejiang HR Services Association, it drew over 50 government, enterprise and industry representatives; the Wenzhou HR park has held it for five consecutive years.
- China·News
Beijing holds guard-courier friendly initiative, easing access at 1,700+ communities barring e-bikes
On Nov 3, Beijing authorities, Meituan and about 150 guards and gig-worker representatives held an event to ease couriers' access to residential compounds. Organizers said 400+ shuttle bikes now cover 100+ of the 1,700+ communities that admit people but not e-bikes. Meituan said it has over 300 courier volunteer teams in Beijing and offers extra pay for hard-to-deliver cases.
- Global·News
Oracle blog covers RECONNECT Dive Deep 2026 and priorities shaping PeopleSoft investment
Oracle published a blog post on RECONNECT Dive Deep 2026 and the priorities shaping investment in PeopleSoft.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Argentina labour reform linked to higher informality and loss of registered employment, report says
Labour reform has meant greater informality and the destruction of registered employment, Norte Corrientes reported.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Blind survey: 91% of Microsoft India respondents got raises of 5% or less in 2026, 86% dissatisfied
A Blind survey of 2,178 India-based professionals found 91% of Microsoft respondents received raises of 5% or less in 2026, versus 45% in 2025. Only 5% got more than 10%, down from 27%. 86% were dissatisfied, second only to Zoho, as Microsoft runs a global voluntary exit programme.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan expands pension coverage: firm-size threshold falls to 36+ staff from Oct 2027, small sole proprietorships with 5+ staff from Oct 2029
Per LIMO, under the pension reform law enacted in June 2025, the wage requirement (JPY 88,000+/month) for short-time workers was abolished in October 2026. The firm-size requirement, 51+ employees until September 2027, will be phased out from October 2027, starting at 36+. From October 2029, sole proprietorships with 5+ regular staff in any industry will be covered.
- China·Research
Suzhou AI+ HR services contest draws 501 projects, 6 already settled in the city
A near three-month "AI + HR services" innovation contest concluded in late September, drawing 501 projects across four tracks. Six have settled in Suzhou, 77 are under negotiation and 19 show intent to settle. At end-2025 Suzhou had 2,396 HR service agencies, 23,000 staff and 65.1 billion yuan in annual revenue.
- United States·Research
DNSFilter poll: 46.1% of firms had employees connect unapproved AI tools, 20.1% of them suffered incidents
A DNSFilter poll of 400 IT and cybersecurity professionals in North America found 54% of firms use AI governance or monitoring controls. 46.1% had an employee connect an unapproved AI tool to corporate environments, and 20.1% of those firms had a security incident. 36.8% let staff approve OAuth or API access, with IT notified afterward.
- China·Research
Jiujiang's supplementary work injury insurance covers 25,532 employers and 481,482 people
As of September 30, 2026, 25,532 employers and 481,482 people in Jiujiang participate in supplementary work injury insurance, including 14,124 specified persons such as over-age and gig workers. The measures took effect September 1 last year and cover over-age workers, interns, flexible workers and delivery riders.
- China·Policy & Law
Nantong talent policies: up to 5 years of allowances, 8,150 talent housing voucher applications accepted
Nantong's "3+2" policy pays monthly living allowances from 500 yuan (junior college) to 3,000 yuan (PhD) for 36 months, extendable by 24 months on home purchase, with 150,000–300,000 yuan housing subsidies. Under a talent housing voucher scheme begun in January, 8,150 applications have been accepted and 3,298 vouchers issued. In September, 168 firms visited 34 universities.
- China·News
Chengdu AIGC skills training center holds first AI open class, with monthly sessions to follow
On Nov. 3, the Western International AI Comic-Drama Industrial Park's Douyin AI creation open class launched in Chengdu, marking the AIGC skills training center's first class and start of operations. Monthly sessions will follow for creators, media workers and students. The center, set up by Sichuan Daily Press Group, focuses on four tracks including AI comic-drama creation.
- China·Policy & Law
Xiangtan issues new housing provident fund policy with eight measures
Xiangtan in Hunan province has issued a new housing provident fund policy comprising eight measures.
- United States·News
Alaska Airlines plans permanent job cuts in Renton, SeaTac and Spokane starting around Dec. 31
Alaska Airlines told Washington's Employment Security Department in a notice dated Oct. 30 that it plans job cuts at facilities in Renton, SeaTac and Spokane, with first separations on or about Dec. 31. The company said the cuts are expected to be permanent but the facilities are not closing entirely. Bumping rights do not apply.
- United States·News
US tech firms pause PERM filings, adding green card pressure on foreign workers, per Creaders
Creaders reports that several US tech companies, including Microsoft and Adobe, have paused PERM labor certification filings. A tech worker interviewed said her company has also stopped handling PERM. The report says the pause adds pressure on foreign employees planning green card applications and job changes.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Bengaluru holds 34% of India's forward-deployed engineering talent, FDE Academy report says
A report by FDE Academy says Bengaluru holds 34% of India's forward-deployed engineering talent, with Hyderabad at 14% and Delhi NCR at 13%, together 61%. Big Tech employs 38% of FDE professionals; product firms, IT services and consulting 24% each; AI-first startups 14%. About 70% have eight years of experience or less.
- Asia-Pacific·News
OfBusiness: seven of 15 CXOs came through its management trainee programme
OfBusiness says seven of its 15 CXOs are alumni of its management trainee programme, launched in 2017. The company says trainees take on independent business responsibilities after six months. It reports annual operating revenue above Rs 20,000 crore and over 30,000 employees; the report notes no cohort-level data exists to assess wider success.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Vietnam sets minimum wage for contract workers effective January 1, 2027
Vietnamese media report the minimum wage standard for workers under labor contracts that will apply from January 1, 2027.
- China·Research
Jiuquan, Gansu reports 138,200 surplus laborers placed and 145 million yuan in startup guarantee loans this year
Jiuquan, Gansu says it has placed 138,200 surplus rural and urban workers this year, earning 3.799 billion yuan. It placed 2,328 people in urban and 363 in rural public-welfare jobs, visited 500-plus firms and helped fill 3,760 positions. Startup guarantee loans totaled 145 million yuan.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary answer on haze guideline compliance and delivery worker protection
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to a parliamentary question from Assoc Prof Terence Ho for the Nov. 3, 2026 sitting. The question asks how the Ministry will monitor compliance with haze protection guidelines and protect delivery workers.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico registers 8% wage deal rejected by IMSS health workers without a vote
Per the World Socialist Web Site, Mexico's labor registration center CFCRL registered an 8% wage agreement between IMSS and the SNTSS union on Oct. 28 without a worker vote, after workers rejected the first offer on Oct. 14. A fourth national march is called for Nov. 9.
- United States·News
Amazon cuts more jobs as CEO touts record margins and retail gains
Amazon is cutting more jobs while its CEO touts record margins and retail gains.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written reply to parliamentary question on Employment Claims Tribunals costs and fee recovery framework
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to a parliamentary question tabled for the 3 November 2026 sitting. MP Gho Sze Kee asked whether the Government will review the costs framework in the Employment Claims Tribunals.
- United States·Research
ADP to release October private payrolls report on November 4
A Yahoo Finance preview says ADP's October private payrolls report is due Wednesday, November 4, alongside earnings from McDonald's, Qualcomm and DoorDash.
- China·Policy & Law
Guangdong issues 37-measure consumption plan including paid leave enforcement and wider provident fund use
Guangdong's development and reform commission published the province's Consumption Expansion Plan on Nov. 3, with 37 measures. It calls for full implementation of paid annual leave, encourages employers to combine leave with holidays, and widens housing provident fund use to renovation and property fees.
- United States·Research
US midterms: Green card wait and H-1B wall divide two Indian dreams
Firstpost reports on the green card wait and H-1B visa uncertainty facing Indian immigrants in the context of the US midterm elections.
- United States·News
Oakland Coliseum operator will lay off 1,600 employees; new owner says they'll be hired back
The operator of the Oakland Coliseum will lay off 1,600 employees, while a new owner says they will be hired back, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
- China·Policy & Law
Beijing Xicheng social insurance center sets up joint window and guide staff, queue numbers down 12.4%
Beijing's Xicheng district social insurance center, with tax and medical insurance authorities, has set up a joint window handling contribution disputes at a single counter, plus guide staff on the hall floor. The staff have served over 70,000 people, about 150 a day. This year queue numbers fell 12.4% and average waits shortened by over 50%.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM replies to parliamentary question on measures to support resident employment growth
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published its reply to a question for the 3 November 2026 parliamentary sitting. MP Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked what measures the Ministry is considering to support resident employment growth.
- Global·Product
SAP to host Dec. 2 session on high-volume hiring with SmartRecruiters for SAP SuccessFactors
SAP has announced a Dec. 2, 2026 session (11:00–11:30am EST) demonstrating how SmartRecruiters for SAP SuccessFactors uses AI-enabled tools and automation for high-volume hiring. Topics include AI for talent pipelines, simpler recruiter and candidate experiences, and planning a move from SAP SuccessFactors Recruiting.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM replies to parliamentary question on mental fatigue and AI
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published its reply to a parliamentary question scheduled for the sitting on or after 3 November 2026. MP Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari asked whether the Ministry will study the mental fatigue experienced by workers in relation to AI.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
YORISOI publishes analysis report on career building in the job-change era based on reasons and number of job changes
YORISOI has released its own analysis report examining career building in an era of job changes, based on reasons for changing jobs and number of job changes.
- Global·Research
CEPR column presents experimental evidence on job seekers' beliefs and preferences over wages and benefits
CEPR published a column titled 'Job seekers' beliefs and preferences over wages and benefits: Experimental evidence from online job boards'.
- United States·News
Verizon ends Q3 2026 with about 93,300 employees, down from 97,600; AT&T also cut staff
Verizon's latest earnings report showed about 93,300 employees at the end of Q3 2026, down from 97,600 in Q2, per Yahoo Finance. Verizon previously laid off 13,000 in December 2025, hundreds in May, and over 3,000 in August after selling 274 retail stores. The report says AT&T also conducted layoffs in Q3.
- United States·News
Amazon filing shows previously announced layoffs include 95 jobs in Washington state
A filing shows Amazon's previously announced layoffs include 95 jobs in Washington state. MyNorthwest.com reported the layoffs run through January.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
About 400 sole proprietor workers died in five years in Japan's construction industry
About 400 one-man contractors and similar workers have died in five years in Japan's construction sector, according to a report aimed at prime contractors and subcontractors.
- Europe·Research
International Stress Awareness Day on 4 November: four in 10 workers globally report significant daily stress
International Stress Awareness Day falls on 4 November 2026, within Stress Awareness Week (2–6 November), organised by ISMA UK under the theme 'Rehumanising the Workplace'. The report says four in 10 workers globally face significant daily stress, citing excessive workloads, AI disruption, financial insecurity and bullying.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Hiremii rebrands as AQYR, pivots to AI-powered workforce intelligence
Australia-based talent platform Hiremii announced it has rebranded to AQYR and will trade on the ASX under ticker AQ1 from 4 November 2026. The company says it will combine workforce analytics, talent intelligence and workforce solutions for energy, resources and infrastructure. Revenue for the year to 30 June 2026 rose 8.6% to AUD 32.4 million.
- United States·Research
US JOLTS: September job openings, hires and separations little changed, quits tick up
The latest BLS JOLTS report showed job openings, hires and separations little changed in September, with only a slight rise in quits. Marketplace said the hiring rate is about where it was in 2012 and 2013. Economists Angela Hanks (Century Foundation) and Heidi Shierholz (EPI) said job and wage growth data do not suggest it is a good time to quit.
- United States·News
Chicago parking attendants begin strike, expected to expand Wednesday
A strike by Chicago-area parking attendants represented by Teamsters Local 727 began Tuesday and is expected to expand Wednesday, when union leaders say all represented attendants could be off the job. The union says the strike will roll out in waves affecting about 200 locations. It says the contract offer does not keep pace with inflation and rising health care costs.
- United States·News
Mark Cuban urges 401(k) investors to press funds to divest from health insurers
Billionaire Mark Cuban urged Americans in an X post to pressure retirement funds to sell shares in major health insurers. According to KFF, employer-sponsored family coverage averaged $28,303 in 2026, up 5%, with workers paying $7,471. Gallup says about 62% of Americans own stocks directly or indirectly.
- Europe·Policy & Law
French LR candidate Retailleau proposes scrapping 35-hour week and charges on overtime, without raising minimum wage
French Les Républicains candidate Bruno Retailleau proposed in a 3 November TV interview a law to abolish the 35-hour week and remove social contributions on overtime, while ruling out a rise in the minimum wage (smic). Gains would depend on hours offered by employers and the overtime threshold. The plan is a campaign proposal.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Saitama Labor Bureau: 82.2% of 658 inspected workplaces violated labor laws in FY2025
Saitama Labor Bureau published FY2025 inspection results for workplaces suspected of excessive overtime. Of 658 sites, 541 (82.2%) violated labor standards laws. Illegal overtime was found at 285 sites, including 2 with over 200 hours a month; unpaid overtime at 62; missing health-protection measures at 116.
- United States·News
Nearly 2,000 Amazon workers to walk out over return-to-office
Nearly 2,000 Amazon workers will walk out following the return-to-office requirement, ABC News reports.
- China·Policy & Law
Multiple Shandong cities publish proposed social insurance subsidy lists; Ningyang to pay RMB 807,315 to 587 people
Human resources and social security bureaus in several Shandong cities and counties published proposed social insurance subsidy lists in early November, covering hard-to-employ people, graduates and registered unemployed. In Ningyang County, Tai'an, 587 people unemployed for over six months are proposed to receive RMB 807,315.22 in total, with publicity running Nov. 2–6.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Canva CEO says major reorganization will affect 22% of workforce
Canva's CEO said a major reorganization will affect 22% of the company's workforce, according to a memo published by Business Insider.
- United States·Product
Centene promotes CHOICE plan expansion for employers
Centene is promoting an expansion of its CHOICE plan for employers.
- United States·Research
2026 midterms: What the results mean for health benefits
BenefitsPRO examines what the 2026 US midterm election results mean for health benefits.
- Asia-Pacific·News
JNU contract workers in India strike over alleged wage deductions and denied benefits
Hundreds of sanitation workers, mess attendants, security guards, horticulturists and maintenance staff at Jawaharlal Nehru University began a strike on Tuesday. According to the All India Central Council of Trade Unions and the workers, more than 500 people are affected. They allege illegal wage deductions, arbitrary retrenchments, unpaid statutory bonuses and denied maternity benefits.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Quintana Roo labor secretariat reports 95% compliance with Mexico's 'Ley Silla'
The Quintana Roo Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) reported 95% progress in compliance with the so-called 'Ley Silla' among economic units in the state.
- United States·Policy & Law
Lockheed Martin agrees to pay $29.5 million in U.S. discrimination settlement
Lockheed Martin agreed to pay $29.5 million in a U.S. discrimination settlement.
- Global·News
Fake job interview gave North Korean hackers foothold in record US$6.3bn Binance theft
Binance said in its initial incident report that a sham recruitment process gave attackers a foothold to drain US$6.3 billion from the exchange on 29 October 2026. The FBI blamed North Korea. Binance said the operation began in June 2026, and in September an engineer seeking a new job was approached on a legitimate job-hunting platform.
- United States·Research
US JOLTS: September job openings rise to 7.5 million, hires reach 5.4 million as quits also climb
BLS JOLTS data released Tuesday show September job openings at 7.5 million, up more than 333,000 from August and nearly half a million from September 2025. Hires were 5.4 million, up 131,000, with the hiring rate at 3.4%; quits also rose. September payrolls added just 29,000 jobs.
- Global·Research
Big opportunities hidden amid modest headline growth in IT staffing
A Staffing Industry Analysts IT staffing report says headline growth in IT staffing is modest, but big opportunities are hidden within the market.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canadian arbitrator upholds firing of recycling plant worker over alcohol use
An arbitrator upheld the dismissal of a worker at Gerdau's metal recycling plant in Whitby, Ont., fired after an anonymous tip about alcohol. The worker held a safety-sensitive role. Two tests more than four hours after her Feb. 1, 2024 shift read 0.040% and 0.035%.
- United States·Policy & Law
Treasury and IRS issue Revenue Procedure 2026-34 updating and expanding self-correction program for qualified and 403(b) plans
On October 22, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS issued Revenue Procedure 2026-34, a comprehensive update to the Employee Plans compliance framework. It updates and expands the self-correction program for qualified plans and 403(b) plans.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Quote of the day: with AI advances and a better labor market, Japan will not need to accept so many foreign workers under Specified Skilled Worker program
A Japan Today quote of the day says that as artificial intelligence advances and the labor market improves, the country will not need to accept so many foreign workers under the Specified Skilled Worker program.
- Asia-Pacific·Earnings
TCS Q2 revenue climbs 2.8% as AI business tops $3B
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) reported Q2 revenue growth of 2.8%, with its AI business topping $3 billion.
- United States·Policy & Law
California Governor Newsom signs SB 947 restricting employer use of automated decision systems
According to a law firm article by Ervin Cohen & Jessup LLP, California Governor Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 947 in response to the growing use of automated decision systems in employment, adding restrictions on employers.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
B.C. Court of Appeal revives fired pharmacy assistant's discrimination complaint against health authority
The British Columbia Court of Appeal ruled unanimously on Oct. 30 that the Human Rights Tribunal was right to let a fired pharmacy assistant's discrimination complaint proceed. A lower court judge should not have blocked it. The worker alleges three comments tied to her religion and place of origin.
- United States·Earnings
HealthEquity to release fiscal 2027 third-quarter results on December 1
HealthEquity (NASDAQ: HQY) plans to release its fiscal 2027 third-quarter results after market close on December 1, 2026, with an investor call at 4:30 p.m. Eastern the same day.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Tamaulipas labor secretariat trains auto dealers in Matamoros on NOM-035 and Ley Silla
Tamaulipas' Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare held advisory sessions in Matamoros for members of the Mexican Association of Automotive Distributors (AMDA). Topics covered NOM-035-STPS-2018 on psychosocial risk factors and the labor reform known as Ley Silla, which guarantees rest during the workday.
- United States·Research
Drug costs, GLP-1s drive biggest employer health cost spike in decades
BenefitsPRO reports that drug costs and GLP-1 drugs are driving the biggest spike in employer health costs in decades.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Restaurants in Cancún and nearby areas plan to adjust shifts ahead of Mexico's 40-hour workweek
Restaurants in Cancún, Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres plan to reorganize shifts to adapt to Mexico's cut in the workweek from 48 to 40 hours, which begins in 2027. Canirac Cancún president Perla Flores Navarro said owners will first use existing staff, and new hiring will depend on sector results.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Best Service Pros, LiUNA Local 183 sign renewal collective agreement for GTAA Terminal 3
The renewal agreement between Best Service Pros and LiUNA Local 183 at GTAA Terminal 3 runs Oct. 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028 and was signed Oct. 16, 2026. Overtime is 1.5 times pay beyond 44 hours weekly. Custodial associates start at $20.30, rising to $21.83.
- United States·Policy & Law
DOL proposal to modernize PERM labor certification clears OIRA review
On Oct. 23, 2026, OIRA cleared a Department of Labor proposal (RIN 1205-AC29) to modernize the PERM labor certification process, which has had no significant update since 2004. A proposed rule may be published, followed by notice and comment. DOL has said it will raise recruitment standards and strengthen safeguards for US workers affected by layoffs.
- United States·Policy & Law
Maryland FAMLI program: deadline to declare private plan use is two weeks away
Law firm Miles & Stockbridge notes that Maryland's Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program will provide eligible employees with paid leave for certain family and medical reasons. The deadline for employers to declare use of a private plan is about two weeks from the article's publication.
- United States·Research
Study: knowledge workers who use AI to challenge their ideas improve performance
A study of 45 knowledge workers at a U.S. public university, led by UMass Amherst professor Monideepa Tarafdar, found that those who deliberately used AI to challenge their own ideas significantly improved their performance. The researchers call the approach generating friction, aimed at countering AI sycophancy and confirmation bias.
- United States·Policy & Law
Oklahoma federal court summary judgment order raises question of whether franchise owners are FLSA employees
A McAfee & Taft article says a recent Western District of Oklahoma order on summary judgment is a reminder of the importance of worker classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), in the context of whether franchise owners are employees.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexican labor lawyer says employers can justifiably dismiss for poor performance even if not listed in Article 47 of Federal Labor Law
A lawyer known on TikTok as Abogado del Trabajo says poor performance can justify dismissal in Mexico under Article 47(XV) and Article 134(IV) of the Federal Labor Law, El Imparcial reported. This is his interpretation; the law still requires proof of just cause to terminate without employer liability.
- United States·Policy & Law
Federal judge rejects ex-HR employee's bias claims against NYC St. Patrick's Cathedral trustees
Judge Paul Engelmayer of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted summary judgment to the defendants on all claims in Torres v. Trustees of St. Patrick's Cathedral on Oct. 29, 2026. The former HR employee alleged race, national origin, sex and age discrimination, plus retaliation. Court documents say she did not respond by a deadline to an offer of a position with the archdiocese's HR department after her role was eliminated in an outsourcing restructure.
- United States·Research
Gallup: U.S. employee engagement falls to 29% in Q3 2026, lowest since 2011
A Gallup survey released Oct. 28 found U.S. employee engagement fell 2 percentage points quarter over quarter to 29% in Q3 2026, its lowest since 2011. The sharpest declines were among hybrid and remote employees at organizations adopting AI. Actively disengaged employees rose 1 point to 18%, and 53% said they were not engaged.
- United States·Policy & Law
U.S. Supreme Court to hear Crowther case on whether education employees can sue under Title IX
The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments Nov. 30 in Crowther v. Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia on whether employees of federally funded educational institutions can sue for sex discrimination under Title IX. The case includes Georgia Tech's 2019 firing of women's basketball coach MaChelle Joseph, which the university says followed an investigation finding players felt bullied. Experts say it will significantly affect future employee suits against colleges.
- United States·Policy & Law
EEOC plans to revise Pregnant Workers Fairness Act regulations in November, signals rollback
The U.S. EEOC plans to revise its Pregnant Workers Fairness Act regulations in November, according to a filing to the Office of Management and Budget. The agency said it intends to revise its interpretation of "pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions" but has not specified the changes. Chair Andrea Lucas had previously criticized the current rules' breadth.
- United States·Research
US job openings rise in September; Oxford Economics calls labor market conditions 'solid'
US job openings increased in September, with all key metrics improving. Oxford Economics described labor market conditions as 'solid'.
- United States·People
Kristie Mark named first executive director of the Employee Ownership Foundation
Kristie Mark, Chief Operating Officer of The ESOP Association, has been named Executive Director of the Employee Ownership Foundation, its first, according to Business Wire.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Brazilian labor lawyer flags key December 2026 dates for CLT workers
Labor lawyer André Ab says December 5 is the deadline for November salary under Brazil's CLT (fifth business day, Saturday counting). The second 13th-salary installment is due by December 20, a Sunday, so payment should be made by the preceding Friday. Some days resembling holidays do not automatically guarantee time off.
- Global·Research
CHROs caught in the middle of AI mandates as vague directives lead to inconsistent adoption
A Predictive Index article says executive AI mandates are interpreted differently as they pass through managers, leaving employees with inconsistent expectations. Citing a recent KPMG report, it says the biggest barriers to AI adoption are slow change management and a lack of role-specific use cases, not the tools. It argues HR must define what good AI use looks like by role and team.
- United States·Research
Edward Jones study: over 32 million US adults act as financial caregivers to people 65+, straining retirement savings
A new study from Edward Jones, Age Wave and The Harris Poll finds family caregivers to adults 65 and older spend more than 100 hours a month providing care. More than 32 million US adults are financial caregivers, and over 8 in 10 are willing to sacrifice their own financial security.
- United States·Policy & Law
Sixth Circuit affirms Cincinnati Bell win, finds IT engineer exempt computer employee under FLSA
The Sixth Circuit affirmed summary judgment for Cincinnati Bell Telephone on an FLSA overtime claim by an IT solutions engineer. It found his primary duties of designing, developing and documenting an interactive voice response system made him an exempt computer employee. The case is Bennink v. Cincinnati Bell Tel. Co., No. 26-3150.
- United States·Policy & Law
7th Circuit upholds block on two Indiana laws targeting teachers' union dues authorization
The Seventh Circuit upheld a federal judge's decision blocking two Indiana laws that changed how teachers authorize unions to receive a portion of their wages. The court found the laws violated the First Amendment by targeting teachers who wanted to join a union and pay dues. The case is Anderson Federation of Teachers et al v. Rokita et al.
- United States·People
Eight executives to depart after Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger, per Skydance memo
Eight executives will leave after the merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, according to a Skydance memo. The information comes from the memo rather than a company announcement.
- United States·Policy & Law
Florida federal judge rules Energy Transfer units must face trial over ex-pipeline technician's age bias claims
A Florida federal judge ruled Monday that Energy Transfer Interstate Holdings and an affiliate must go to trial on claims they forced out a former pipeline technician who said he was called "Grandpa." The offer of a performance improvement plan or a $30,000 separation agreement could lead a jury to find age-based firing, the judge said. Jacob Wallace was 82 when he sued.
- Europe·Policy & Law
French Senate committee examines meal voucher reform bill on 3 November, floor debate scheduled for 19 November
The French Senate's social affairs committee scheduled examination of the meal voucher (titres-restaurant) reform bill's report and text for 3 November. The bill, already adopted by the National Assembly, is due for debate in the Senate on 19 November and is not yet in force.
- United States·Policy & Law
US Labor Department pauses PERM processing for eight employers including Microsoft and Adobe
The US Department of Labor announced in October it is pausing processing of PERM labor certification applications involving Microsoft, Adobe and six large IT services firms, including pending cases, according to World Journal. The step is linked to an investigation and is not nationwide; other employers can still file. It does not mean the firms were found in violation, and existing H-1B visas are not automatically affected.
- United States·Policy & Law
Ninth Circuit to pause order restoring TPS for Venezuelans for at least two weeks
A Ninth Circuit panel said Tuesday it will grant a 14-day administrative stay, beginning Friday, of its order restoring Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelan nationals. The panel had earlier denied the Trump administration's bid to keep blocking a lower court ruling that found removal of the protections unlawful. TPS allows stays of up to 18 months with work authorization eligibility.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Ontario to reserve 150 provincial nomination spaces for foreign workers in Nipissing District in 2027, North Bay says
Ontario will reserve 150 provincial immigration spaces for foreign workers in Nipissing District, according to the City of North Bay, whose Oct. 26, 2026 web page now returns a 404 error. The OINP plans to issue nominations in 2027 through its REDI initiative. Candidates need a job offer in the district, must meet an OINP stream's criteria and submit an employer-supported expression of interest.
- United States·News
Bombardier plans to hire 800 in the US and invest about $270 million in service network expansion
Bombardier plans to hire 800 people in the US and invest about $270 million to expand its service network.
- United States·Policy & Law
Illinois federal court denies UCAN's motion to dismiss ADA discrimination and retaliation claims
An Illinois federal court denied UCAN's motion to dismiss ADA discrimination and retaliation claims by a program manager with anxiety and depression, finding them reasonably related to her EEOC charge given the close timing of her medical leave and discharge. Her ADA harassment claim was dismissed for failure to exhaust and failure to allege severe or pervasive conduct (Jennings v. Ucan, Oct. 30, 2026).
- United States·Policy & Law
Allegheny County executive signs amendments making it first US county to require employer-funded paid parental leave
Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato signed amendments to Article XXIV of the county health department rules on October 22, 2026, according to a Cozen O'Connor article on JD Supra. The firm describes the county as the first in the nation to require employer-funded paid parental leave.
- United States·Research
BizPac Review: Job openings rise, but there's more to the story
BizPac Review reports that job openings rose, but says there is more to the story.
- United States·News
John Deere workers approve new deal after monthlong strike
John Deere workers have approved a new deal after a monthlong strike, ABC News reports.
- United States·Research
Law firm: employers considering self-funded health plans should not overlook HIPAA
A Bricker Graydon Wyatt article on JD Supra says employers facing another year of significant health plan cost increases are looking more closely at self-funding. It cautions that HIPAA compliance should be considered.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canada's new immigration policy awards extra points to high-paying occupations to attract skilled migrants
Canada has put in place a new immigration policy that awards additional points to applicants in high-paying occupations, aiming to attract skilled immigrants.
- United States·Policy & Law
Colorado draft AI regulations preview new employer duties for AI used in screening and promotion
According to a Jackson Lewis article, Colorado's Attorney General office has released an interim draft of rules under the ADMT/chatbot act rulemaking, previewing new duties for employers using AI to screen resumes, rank candidates or flag employees for promotion. The rules remain in draft form.
- United States·Research
eHealth survey: nearly half of healthcare consumers use AI to review health plans during ACA open enrollment
A survey of more than 1,000 adult patients by eHealth found nearly half of healthcare consumers are turning to AI to review health plan options. 84% said the system seems designed to be confusing, 57% called open enrollment stressful, and 71% re-enroll in the same plan each year. ACA Marketplace shoppers can now select 2027 plans.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico's Querétaro to set up tripartite commission to track labor reform and guide employers
Querétaro, Mexico, will form a tripartite commission of unions, business chambers and state agencies to monitor labor reform implementation, with progress indicators, training workshops and support for employers. State labor secretary Liliana San Martín Castillo said it will identify which sectors already apply the new rules; shorter working hours will be a priority.
- United States·Policy & Law
Regions Bank employee sues over $390 annual tobacco surcharge on health insurance, alleging ERISA violation
A Regions Bank employee sued the bank and its parent, alleging they charge tobacco and vape users an extra $390 per year for health insurance without a valid way to avoid the fee. The complaint, filed Monday in the Middle District of Florida, says the enrollment guide lists two premium tables with no alternative program, violating ERISA.
- United States·Research
Fisher Phillips outlines top tips for retail employers during OSHA inspections
Law firm Fisher Phillips published guidance on what retail employers should expect during federal OSHA inspections, how to protect their rights and how to avoid citations. It says the retail trade sector saw 360 OSHA inspections between October 2025 and September 2026. It notes nearly half of states run OSHA-approved State Plans that may be more stringent.
- United States·Policy & Law
FTC orders DoorDash and eight other firms to explain data-driven pricing and gig worker pay as DoorDash agrees Instacart deal
On Oct. 28 the FTC ordered DoorDash, Instacart, Walmart, Target, Uber, Lyft and three airlines to explain whether they use personal data to set prices and gig worker pay, with 45 days to respond. The orders do not allege any company uses personalized pricing. A day later DoorDash agreed to buy Instacart for about $17 billion, subject to regulatory approvals.
- United States·Research
Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: job growth at firms under 50 employees holds steady in October, weekly hours growth positive for eighth month
Paychex reported that its Small Business Employment Watch showed job growth at U.S. businesses with fewer than 50 employees holding steady in October, with weekly hours worked growth positive for the eighth consecutive month.
- Europe·News
Czech public broadcasters hold one-day strike over government move to abolish license fees
Workers at Czech Television and Czech Radio held an all-day strike on 3 November 2026 to protest government moves to scrap license fees and shift funding to the state budget. They say the action is to defend the independence of public media. Thousands rallied in Prague, Brno and Ostrava, backed by more than 300 Czech athletes.
- United States·Policy & Law
Former Equitas Health manager sues, alleging firing after reporting racial discrimination; VP admitted bias on tape
A former programs manager at Equitas Health, an Ohio LGBTQ+ healthcare nonprofit, filed suit on November 2, 2026 in the US District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. He alleges he was fired after repeatedly reporting racial discrimination while his disability accommodation renewal was pending. The allegations have not been adjudicated.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canada to announce new immigration levels on Nov. 5, PR admissions may change
Canada will announce new immigration targets on November 5, and permanent residence (PR) admissions may change, VanPeople reports.
- United States·Research
AI productivity gains in US are real but narrow; wider job losses may wait for recession, Goldman Sachs research suggests
EPB Research's Eric Basmajian, using BEA and BLS data, found output per worker in information, professional services and finance has grown about 5% a year since late 2022, versus 2.2% in 2005–2022; the rest of the private economy moved from 0.9% to 1.4%. Those sectors produce roughly a quarter of US private output. Goldman Sachs research suggests the wider job shakeout tends to wait for a recession.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canada's updated immigration levels plan expected in Thursday's federal budget, sources say
Multiple government sources told CTV News that Prime Minister Mark Carney's updated immigration levels plan will be released with the federal budget on Thursday, Nov. 5. Statistics Canada estimates the population at 41,798,407 on July 1, 2026, up 0.5%, the slowest July-to-July growth since 1944-45. Current targets are 380,000 permanent residents a year for 2026-2028.
- United States·Policy & Law
National Guard member sues Wells Fargo, alleging firing over military duty
A Pennsylvania National Guard member and former Wells Fargo audit manager filed a federal lawsuit on November 2, 2026 in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. He alleges the bank fired him over his military service, bringing USERRA discrimination and retaliation claims. The allegations are unproven.
- Europe·Research
France: when employers must consult the CSE, depending on headcount and type of decision
A Mediavenir explainer sets out when French employers must consult the CSE (works council). A CSE is required once a company has at least 11 employees for 12 consecutive months; at 11–49 staff its remit excludes the three recurring consultations. Under 50 staff, consultation on the DUERP risk assessment document still applies. Skipping the procedure exposes decisions to court challenge.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil's TRT-2 rules rehiring hypersufficient employee as PJ contractor is labor fraud
Brazil's Regional Labor Court of the 2nd Region (TRT-2) ruled that rehiring a hypersufficient employee as a PJ contractor was aimed at cutting costs and constituted labor fraud. The court upheld recognition of the employment relationship.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK employers face tougher sexual harassment duty from 30 October 2026, affecting office parties
From 30 October 2026, UK employers must take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of employees, a higher standard than the previous reasonable-steps duty, according to Harry Abrams in People Management. Employers can also be liable for third-party harassment. Tribunals can uplift discrimination compensation by up to 25 per cent, and the EHRC can investigate and enforce.
- Europe·Policy & Law
New UK law on union workplace access in force; People Management looks at employer readiness
A new UK law entitling trade unions to request access to workplaces to support good industrial relations has come into force, People Management reported. The article asks whether employers are ready.
- United States·Research
SIA's inaugural Healthcare Staffing 100 honors executives advancing AI, workforce planning partnerships
Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) has released its inaugural Healthcare Staffing 100, honoring executives advancing AI and workforce planning partnerships.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Study finds India's labour codes leave women gig workers without adequate protection
A study in the journal Laws by Anubhuti Dungdung and Asha Verma of Gujarat National Law University compares India's and Bangladesh's platform work rules. It finds India recognises platform workers via social security without employment status, while Bangladesh extends collective rights without social insurance. Neither guarantees statutory maternity benefits for women outside conventional employment.
- United States·News
University of Oklahoma hides H-1B hiring notice after social media exposure
The University of Oklahoma hid an H-1B hiring notice after it was exposed on social media, according to Campus Reform.
- United States·Research
US staffing hours extend growth trend, SIA-Bullhorn Staffing Indicator shows
US staffing hours continued their growth trend, according to the SIA | Bullhorn Staffing Indicator from Staffing Industry Analysts.
- Europe·News
'GTA' studio workers in U.K. to hold union vote
Workers at the U.K. studio behind 'GTA' are to hold a union vote, according to TheFly.
- United States·Research
NDTV Profit lists companies that received the most H-1B approvals
NDTV Profit reports on the companies that received the maximum H-1B visa approvals.
- United States·Research
Axios: New data shows labor market strength in September
New data shows labor market strength in September, Axios reported.
- Canada & Latin America·Product
McLean & Company publishes Define AI Skills Guide to help HR leaders build AI workforce readiness
HR research and advisory firm McLean & Company published its Define AI Skills Guide to help HR leaders define the technical and durable skills needed to deliver on AI priorities. The firm says many organizations are moving faster on AI tools than on workforce capabilities, and that defining AI skills is not a one-time exercise.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil to apply working-hours reduction; how work hours compare across Latin America
Reporte Indigo reports that Brazil will apply a reduction in working hours and compares how working hours stand across Latin American countries.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Charity trustee denied whistleblowing protection by UK tribunal to appeal ruling
A UK employment tribunal ruled that charity trustees cannot claim whistleblowing protection under the Employment Rights Act 1996 as they are not staff. Former British Psychological Society trustee Dr Nigel MacLennan, who raised finance and governance concerns with the Charity Commission and was removed in 2021 amid bullying allegations he denies, will appeal, his legal team said.
- United States·Policy & Law
Ohio federal court grants Norfolk Southern summary judgment on track laborer's ADA claims
An Ohio federal district court granted summary judgment to Norfolk Southern Railway on ADA disability discrimination claims by a track laborer with PTSD. The court found the direct threat defense dispositive, as his violent threats against coworkers made him unqualified for the position. The ruling in Carte v. Norfolk S. Ry. Co. is dated Oct. 30, 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Trainee teacher loses A$3.9m discrimination claim over staffroom row at ACT school
The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal, in a decision published 30 October 2026, found a trainee teacher was not discriminated against. He had claimed the school discriminated against him over his political convictions under the ACT Discrimination Act 1991 and sought A$3.9 million. The tribunal held it was his behaviour, not his beliefs. The dispute followed a staffroom argument on 6 December 2023 at Namadgi School.
- Global·Research
Ashurst and Perkins Coie publish international guide to holiday pay for retail and consumer products employers
Law firms Ashurst and Perkins Coie have published an international guide to holiday pay aimed at retail and consumer products employers. The piece notes that working overtime or extra hours during the holidays is part and parcel of employment in these busy sectors.
- United States·Policy & Law
US DOL's EBSA issues final rule expanding PBM disclosure requirements for self-insured health plans
The US Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration has issued a final rule imposing new disclosure requirements on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), expanding transparency for self-insured health plans.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Australian accounting firm and sole director penalised A$109,000 for breaching worker's entitlements
The NSW Industrial Court on 30 October 2026 imposed combined penalties of A$109,000 on Jazaa Accountants Pty Ltd and its sole director. The court found the firm failed to pay the national minimum wage and superannuation, failed to issue pay slips and keep records for a temporary visa holder over 16 months. The worker was underpaid by more than A$23,100 in wages alone.
- United States·Research
US job openings top forecasts in September as quits hit 18-month high
US job openings topped forecasts in September, and quits reached an 18-month high, Quartz reported.
- Europe·Research
HR Grapevine: why HR leaders hold the key to unlocking young talent amid NEET challenge
HR Grapevine published a piece on tackling the NEET challenge, arguing HR leaders hold the key to unlocking young talent.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Workers occupy Pauny tractor factory in Córdoba, Argentina, over unpaid wages and company debts
Workers have occupied the Pauny tractor factory in Las Varillas, Córdoba, Argentina, citing the company's large debts, overdue wages and lack of response. A hearing at the Labour Ministry on Monday failed, and the plant remains idle. Concern is growing over the future of the manufacturer and its jobs.
- Europe·Research
Many employers report retention problems even as job vacancies fall, People Management says
People Management reports that many businesses are experiencing retention problems even though the number of job vacancies is falling. Experts urge clear communication and investment in workforces.
- United States·News
Nearly 1,200 Chicago-area parking workers strike after rejecting contract offer
Nearly 1,200 Teamsters Local 727 parking workers began a strike across the Chicago area on Tuesday after voting down a contract offer from the Chicago Parking Association, which represents 15 commercial operators. The union accused the association of bad-faith bargaining, unlawful surveillance and retaliation. The association called its offer among the most generous in the US parking industry.
- United States·News
Chicago parking workers strike as they seek a new contract
Parking workers in Chicago have gone on strike as they seek a new contract, according to FOX 32 Chicago.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico employers must electronically log working hours; STPS rules pending, general rules apply from Jan 1, 2027
Mexico's Federal Labor Law reform, published in the official gazette on May 1, 2026, requires employers to keep electronic records of each worker's start and end times. General application rules take effect Jan. 1, 2027, but the labor ministry (STPS) has yet to publish provisions on scope and exceptions. An Ibero University academic says rules for flexible, remote and itinerant work remain unclear.
- United States·Policy & Law
Massachusetts federal court largely denies WHDH-TV motion to dismiss broadcast technicians' FLSA claims
A Massachusetts federal court granted in part and denied in part WHDH-TV's motion to dismiss FLSA claims by IBEW Local 1228 broadcast technicians in Carr v. WHDH-TV. It rejected LMRA Section 301 preemption because the labor contract lacked a clear and unmistakable waiver, letting minimum wage, overtime and retaliation claims proceed; the recordkeeping claim was dismissed.
- United States·People
Ogletree Deakins adds employment litigators Timothy Pico and Brett Markson as Los Angeles shareholders
Ogletree Deakins announced on November 3, 2026 that Timothy Pico and Brett Markson have joined its Los Angeles office as shareholders. Pico joins from Jackson Lewis and Markson from Panda Restaurant Group. They previously co-founded Markson Pico LLP and have more than 60 years of combined legal experience.
- Global·Research
Gartner analyst outlines four L&D trends to expect in 2027
Speaking at the Gartner HR Symposium/Xpo on Oct. 26, Gartner senior principal analyst Rebecca Burton outlined four trends for L&D leaders heading into 2027. Gartner research cites rapid upskilling, AI literacy and cost pressures as drivers of a learning reset. In a Gartner poll of board directors, L&D-related tasks took three of the top five spots for CHROs preparing for AI.
- United States·Research
Arin Dube: Increase in quits and job openings seen as welcome change
Arin Dube says the increase in quits and job openings is a welcome change.
- Europe·News
After Booking, VodafoneZiggo also demands employees spend a mandatory number of days in the office
Het Parool reports that VodafoneZiggo, following Booking, is also requiring employees to spend a mandatory number of days in the office.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Philippines' Soccsksargen minimum wage to rise P41 a day in two tranches under Wage Order 1226
Under Wage Order 1226, minimum wages in Soccsksargen will rise P41 a day in two tranches, benefitting 86,815 workers, per the Department of Labor and Employment. P16 takes effect 15 days after publication and P25 in January. Non-agriculture daily pay goes from P460 to P501 and agriculture from P443 to P484; household workers get P450 more monthly, to P6,450.
- United States·Research
US September job openings rise to 7.52 million, beating forecasts and pressuring gold above $3,900
US September job openings rose to 7.52 million from an upwardly revised 7.19 million in August, the Labor Department's JOLTS survey showed, beating the 7.15 million economists expected. Per Kitco News, analysts say the data leaves the Fed room to raise rates; spot gold was at $3,938.10, down 0.20%.
- Global·Research
CoinLaw ranks top 7 stablecoin payout providers for marketplaces and global payroll in 2026, with BVNK first
CoinLaw published a ranking of the top 7 stablecoin payout providers for marketplaces and global payroll in 2026, placing BVNK first. It says Deel, Worldpay, Corpay, dLocal and Ontop use BVNK, and Deel reports workers in 100+ countries opted for stablecoin pay. BVNK, now part of Mastercard, pays out across 130+ countries.
- Europe·News
Virgin Media O2 to cut a third of its workforce and halt further fibre upgrade investment
Virgin Media O2 will cut thousands of jobs, about a third of its payroll, and halt investment in further fibre upgrades beyond existing commitments to partners, TheBusinessDesk.com reported. The cuts span the business, including the Executive Committee, where Consumer CEO Lyssa McGowan will merge commercial and operations under her leadership. CEO Lutz Schüler said the business "must evolve"; Manchester remains a key hub.
- United States·Policy & Law
NLRB judge rules Utah cannabis firm The Flower Shop unlawfully fired workers over union activity
An NLRB administrative law judge, Geoffrey Carter, ruled Monday that Utah medical cannabis company True North of Utah LLC, doing business as The Flower Shop, discriminated against and fired workers for protected activity during an unsuccessful organizing campaign. The company is separately challenging the NLRB's authority in federal court.
- United States·Research
US job openings rise to 7.523 million in September, above expectations, Labor Department says
US job openings rose to 7.523 million in September from an upwardly revised 7.190 million in August, the Labor Department said, versus economist expectations of 7.160 million. Hires rose to 5.402 million, quits climbed to 3.365 million, and layoffs and discharges fell to 1.641 million.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
JOTA column: TST Theme 316 does not apply to amendment ending Brazil's 6x1 work schedule
A JOTA Info column argues that TST Theme 316 does not apply to the amendment ending Brazil's 6x1 work schedule, since the working-time reduction does not stem from collective bargaining.
- United States·Research
Bloomberg: US job openings jump to four-month high as layoffs decline
Bloomberg reports that US job openings jumped to a four-month high while layoffs declined.
- United States·Policy & Law
Judi Health backs US Department of Labor push for health plan and PBM transparency
Judi Health, a health technology company and benefits administrator, announced its support for the US Department of Labor and the Trump Administration in advancing new health plan and pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) transparency requirements. The rules are designed to require access to healthcare prices and what PBMs and other vendors charge.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Over 2,500 Canadian federal employees accepted for voluntary departure, most choosing cash payouts
Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat data current as of Oct. 14, 2026 show 2,763 core public administration employees volunteered to leave and 2,555 were accepted. Of 4,854 employees who have chosen, 3,023 took the lump-sum transition support measure. TBS says the Comprehensive Expenditure Review will cut an estimated 16,000 full-time equivalents over three years.
- United States·News
Fiserv cuts 3,000 employee and contractor roles under new CEO
Fiserv said it has cut 3,000 employee and contractor roles since June under its Project Elevate restructuring led by new CEO Takis Georgakopoulos, including a reduction of more than 10% in senior management. The savings target was raised to $1 billion from $500 million. The split between employees and contractors was not disclosed.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK government announces non-compete limits and updates Employment Rights Act implementation timetable
Hogan Lovells Cadwalader's monthly roundup reports that the UK Prime Minister announced restrictions on non-compete clauses in employment contracts. This was followed by updates to the Employment Rights Act implementation timetable and consultations on employment status and whistleblowing. An EAT decision considered whether HR involvement in a disciplinary process made a dismissal unfair.
- Europe·Product
MKSK launches FormulaX AI Fast Formula tool for Oracle Cloud HCM
Oxford-based MKSK Consulting has launched FormulaX, which it describes as the first AI Fast Formula generator for Oracle Cloud HCM. The tool turns plain-English business rules into validated formulas used across payroll, absence accruals and benefits eligibility. MKSK says it could cut formula development from days to hours.
- United States·Product
Workday launches headless AI agent platform for HR and finance
Workday has launched a headless AI agent platform for HR and finance solutions, described by Small Business Trends as a safer approach.
- United States·Research
SHRM: 'hush trips' letting employees work elsewhere can pose big risks for employers and workers
SHRM reports that so-called 'hush trips', in which employees work from elsewhere, are secretive by nature and hard for employers to avoid, but can prove costly if discovered. The article examines the risks for employers and workers.
- Europe·News
Umbria live-performance unions call Nov 5 strike over national contract unchanged since 2018
Unions Slc Cgil, Fistel Cisl and Uilfpc Uil have called a regional strike of theatre employees and contracted staff in Umbria for Thursday, November 5, with a rally at 6:30pm in Perugia. Talks with employer body Federvivo broke down after two years, with the national contract unchanged since 2018. The unions also declared an overtime ban until the dispute ends.
- United States·Research
Job openings surge as U.S. labor market remains robust
Investing.com reported that US job openings surged, with the labor market remaining robust.
- United States·Research
US Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey for September 2026 released
The US Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) for September 2026 has been published, according to a Forex Factory report dated November 3, 2026.
- United States·Research
US job openings increase sharply in September
US job openings increased sharply in September, according to reports from Fresno Bee and TradingView.
- United States·Policy & Law
Texas federal court grants Asbury Automotive summary judgment on Sarbanes-Oxley retaliation claim
A Texas federal district court granted summary judgment to Asbury Automotive Group on a Sarbanes-Oxley retaliation claim by a new car sales manager. The court found he lacked a reasonable belief the reported conduct was securities fraud and failed to show his SEC report contributed to his termination. The ruling is dated Oct. 29, 2026.
- United States·Product
SAP says it will launch E-Verify v32 changes in Onboarding ahead of March 2027 deadline
An SAP blog says the E-Verify v32 update affects the E-Verify experience in Onboarding, including how Hiring Sites are managed and how case information is collected. SAP says it is preparing its changes and will launch them in time for the March 2027 deadline.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Manitoba orders schools to bar staff from private one-to-one messaging with students
Manitoba's education minister Tracy Schmidt announced a ministerial directive, not legislation, ordering publicly funded schools to stop staff messaging students one-to-one on platforms schools cannot monitor. It followed two educators losing their teaching certificates over inappropriate messages. Divisions must report back on updated policies by year-end.
- United States·News
Dropbox files new WARN notice as it cuts 9% of workforce
Dropbox has filed a new WARN notice as it cuts 9% of its workforce, according to TheStreet.
- United States·Policy & Law
Massachusetts Superior Court rules revenue-based pay is outside Wage Act in Brinkley v. Meenta
In Brinkley v. Meenta, Inc., the Suffolk County Superior Court granted summary judgment for the defendants on a former employee's claim. The court held that revenue-based pay falls outside the Massachusetts Wage Act.
- United States·Research
Plan renewal season is when COBRA compliance is most likely to break down, with $100 per person per day excise tax exposure
Insurance Business reports that December and January, peak renewal months for group health plans, are when COBRA administration is most likely to break down. If premium, carrier or plan changes do not reach the COBRA administrator in time, beneficiaries may get notices with wrong rates. Under IRC Section 4980B, an excise tax of $100 per affected qualified beneficiary per day applies while noncompliance continues.
- United States·Policy & Law
Foley & Lardner: California's new AI employment laws to limit automated hiring decisions in 2027
A Foley & Lardner article says California's new AI employment laws will place new limits on automated employment decisions in 2027, making AI compliance increasingly important for employers.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Johannesburg signs addendum to pay parity deal with Samwu covering about 35,000 workers
Johannesburg has signed an addendum to its pay parity agreement with Samwu covering about 35,000 workers, Daily Maverick reported. It relates to planned payments of R1.2bn to R5bn under a November 2025 deal originally valued at about R10.3bn, running to July 2027. The city has not said when or how it will fund the payments; civic groups voiced concern.
- Global·News
Marriott confirms corporate function layoffs; HR and IT teams hit hardest, employees tell Skift
Marriott International confirmed to media that it is cutting corporate function roles, affecting multiple teams at headquarters and regional offices. According to Skift, citing internal employees, the human resources and IT departments were hit hardest, along with teams handling guest complaints and brand quality inspections.
- United States·Product
Joveo launches GEO advisor to help employers track how AI models portray their employment brand
Recruiting tech platform Joveo has launched a Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) advisor. The tool gives companies real-time tracking, insights and technical recommendations to monitor and influence how major large language models, including ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude, represent their employment brand.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Opinion: Alberta's proposed DEI hiring ban under Bill 33 gets 'merit' backwards
Alberta announced it will scrap DEI hiring decisions for public institutions. Bill 33 proposes amending the Alberta Human Rights Act so hiring and promotion are based on merit, not DEI policies. A Canadian HR Reporter opinion piece argues that preferential treatment persists without DEI focus.
- China·Policy & Law
Guangdong issues 37-measure plan to expand consumption, including housing fund use for property fees
Guangdong's development and reform commission issued a plan to expand consumption with 37 measures. They include allowing housing provident fund withdrawals for home renovation and property fees, targeting over 1.1 million new urban jobs a year, refining minimum wage adjustment, and encouraging regular dividends by listed companies.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Adecco barometer outlines priority steps for Mexican firms as working-hour reduction phases in
Adecco's Barometro Laboral 2026 says Mexico's gradual working-hour reduction will require firms to redesign shifts, adopt technology, train leaders and review costs. The report identifies five pillars: economic, organizational, cultural, technological and talent. It suggests time-control technology and shift redesign from 2027, and scaling automation and results-based leadership training in 2028.
- United States·Partnership
Chime expands Workday partnership so employees can choose Chime for direct deposit
Chime (NASDAQ: CHYM) announced an expanded partnership with Workday. Through Workday's Enhanced Direct Deposit experience, employees of Workday customers can select Chime for direct deposit without manually entering account details.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
C.D. Howe report: Canadian retirement income replacement rates stay at 80–90% but public pension share falls
A new C.D. Howe Institute report finds Canadian family income replacement rates remain high at an average of 80% to 90%. However, public and private pensions now replace 10% less of pre-retirement income than two decades ago, with the public pension contribution to the gross replacement rate falling from 80% to 61% over 2013-2022.
- United States·Product
Intradiem launches Queue Optimizer to align contact center staffing with demand
Intradiem announced Queue Optimizer, which helps large customer service organizations anticipate service-level risks and dynamically align staffing with demand. Built on its Harmoniq platform, it works with existing ACD and workforce management systems, recommending staffing adjustments that managers can review and approve before automatic execution.
- United States·Research
Brokers weigh partnering with PEOs as bundled services raise commission concerns
Employee Benefit News reports that many brokers and advisers see professional employer organizations (PEOs) as a competitive threat, while others point to a potentially powerful collaboration. James Daly of J.D. Resley Associates said the perception that PEOs take away part or all of the broker's value proposition exists.
- United States·Product
Remodel Health and Lively launch HSA that lets employees pick an individual health plan and open an HSA in one experience
Remodel Health and Lively launched the Remodel Health HSA, powered by Lively. Employers administering a CHOICE Arrangement (formerly ICHRA) with Remodel Health can let employees choose a plan and open an HSA in one experience. Remodel Health's CEO said participating employees save 25% on average and employers save 7.65% FICA tax.
- Europe·Earnings
PageGroup third-quarter gross profit rises as Americas and Asia-Pacific grow, full-year guidance maintained
Kalkine Media reports that recruiter PageGroup's third-quarter gross profit rose year on year, driven by growth in the Americas and Asia-Pacific, a return to profit growth after a prolonged downturn. The company maintained full-year guidance, and its shares and Hays's rose on the day.
- Europe·Earnings
Amadeus Fire nine-month revenue falls 5.7% to €261.5 million on weak personnel services demand
German staffing firm Amadeus Fire reported group revenue fell 5.7% to €261.5 million for the first nine months of 2026, citing a difficult economy and weak demand for personnel services. The segment totalled €135.8 million, down 15.6%, while Training grew. The decline slowed in Q3 versus a 17.5% drop in H1.
- Europe·Earnings
Gattaca FY revenue up 11% to £443.3 million, underlying profit before tax up 85%
UK engineering staffing firm Gattaca reported FY to 31 July 2026 revenue of £443.3 million, up 11%, and net fee income of £43.2 million, up 11%. Underlying profit before tax rose 85% to £6.1 million, ahead of £4.0 million initial guidance. The company says FY27 underlying PBT is in line with market expectations of £6.5 million.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
India's white-collar hiring jumps 14% in October, auto sector leads
India's white-collar hiring rose 14% in October, with the auto sector leading, Staffing Industry Analysts reported.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Colombian court orders Labor Ministry to recognize rural women's occupational risks and regulate their social security access
The Administrative Tribunal of Cundinamarca ordered Colombia's Labor Ministry to recognize rural women's occupational risks and regulate how they can access the non-contributory social security system. The order implements Article 32 of Law 2466 of 2025, the labor reform in force since June 2026. DANE data show 89.2% of women entrepreneurs do not contribute to pension or health.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's cabinet approves resident doctors' labor reform; MIR association to ask parties to repeal it
Spain's Council of Ministers on Tuesday approved a reform of Royal Decree 1146/2006 to update working conditions for resident doctors (MIR), covering on-call duty, hours and pay. The Asociación MIR España criticized the lack of consensus and funding and said it will ask political parties to repeal it, arguing fewer on-call shifts without compensation would force residents to rest more or earn less.
- United States·Research
ADP: US private-sector employment up 86,000 jobs in October; base pay rose 3.2%
Private-sector employment rose by 86,000 jobs in October, per the ADP National Employment Report produced with the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. ADP Pay Insights showed base pay up 3.2% and gross pay up 4.7% year over year. ADP's Nela Richardson said earnings growth for job-changers was the fastest since March 2024.
- Europe·Policy & Law
German coalition government plans to change working time law, loosening eight-hour day
Germany's CDU/CSU-SPD federal government wants to change working time law to give employees and companies more flexibility, according to Gegen Hartz, whose headline says the eight-hour day is to be abolished. The plan has not yet taken effect.
- Europe·M&A
Harpstone Group buys three Irish staffing firms, names new CFO
Irish-owned human capital group Harpstone Group has acquired three staffing businesses: Sonas Technical, Hamilton French and Aphex. Financial terms were not disclosed. AIB provided funding for the deals and supported a refinance of the group. Harpstone also appointed Seána Leech, former CFO of Cpl, as Group CFO.
- Europe·Research
RÖDL November newsletter covers mandatory electronic payroll records from 2027, salary tax updates and AI in HR in China
RÖDL's November newsletter covers new DAC8 reporting obligations for crypto-asset service providers, immigration developments affecting cross-border commuters in Belgium, and mandatory electronic maintenance of payroll records from 2027. It also outlines salary tax developments, including the planned Salary Tax Amendment Guidelines 2027, and the use of AI in HR in China.
- United States·Research
Paychex: small business employees worked more hours in October, hourly earnings growth below 3% for 26th month
Paychex's October Small Business Employment Watch showed hourly earnings growth of 2.88%, weekly hours growth of 0.11% and weekly earnings growth of 3.04%. Hourly earnings growth stayed below 3% for a 26th month, and weekly hours growth was positive for an eighth month. The jobs index rose 0.06 points to 99.21.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Saskatchewan introduces human trafficking bill requiring hotels, platforms and driver-for-hire services to report suspected cases
Legislation introduced in Saskatchewan on Nov. 2 would require hotel operators, online accommodation platforms and driver-for-hire services to report suspected human trafficking to police. Hotels would keep more detailed customer registers that police could access on reasonable grounds. The proposal carries implications for workforce training and recordkeeping.
- United States·Research
Yahoo Tech tracker: over 195,000 tech layoffs in 2026, with Oracle cutting 21,000 jobs
Yahoo Tech's tracker counts more than 195,000 tech layoffs in 2026. Oracle's June 23 annual filing showed it cut 21,000 jobs over the past year, about 13% of its workforce, citing AI adoption. Microsoft's July round affected 4,800 jobs, mostly in Xbox, and about 14,000 cuts occurred in June at Lucid, Bungie, Robinhood and others.
- United States·Policy & Law
Workday faces California class action alleging AI hiring tools screened out protected groups
In Mobley v. Workday, a California case begun in 2023, plaintiffs allege Workday's AI recruiting tools disproportionately screened out Black applicants, women, people aged 40 and over, and people with disabilities. Lead plaintiff Derek Mobley says he was rejected from more than 100 jobs. Plaintiffs seek certification of four applicant groups; Workday denies wrongdoing and the case is unresolved. A certification ruling would not decide whether discrimination occurred.
- Global·Research
Ataraxis 2026 index: US leads global AI talent, Canada second
The 2026 Global Workforce Specialization Index by analytics firm Ataraxis covers 32 countries and six professional fields. The US scores 100 on AI talent, Canada is second at 58.345, and India follows at 57.57, with Germany, the UK and Australia further behind.
- United States·Research
Businessolver research: 59% of CEOs and 51% of CHROs expect empathy-led decisions to be challenged
Businessolver's 2026 State of Workplace Empathy C-Suite report, based on 1,000 employees and 300 executives, found 59% of CEOs and 51% of CHROs expect decisions to be challenged if they lead with empathy. Yet 99% of CEOs and 88% of CHROs say empathy contributes to business results. Also, 43% of CEOs fear losing respect.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
GreenShield research: 92% of Canadian mothers carry family mental load, employers can help
GreenShield research finds 92% of Canadian mothers carry the family mental load. Dr. Khush Amaria of GreenShield Health describes it as ongoing cognitive and emotional work that affects sleep, concentration and well-being. The article discusses how employers can help lighten it.
- United States·Product
Asymbl launches My Day in Recruiter Suite, included in every edition at no extra cost
Asymbl announced general availability of My Day, a new Recruiter Suite feature that organizes a recruiter's day around the highest-impact work as determined by the firm and shows why each item matters. It is included in every Recruiter Suite edition at no additional cost.
- United States·Research
Lyra Health forecast: 92% of benefits leaders say mental health is essential to business performance
Lyra Health released its 2027 Workforce Mental Health Trends Forecast. The report finds that 92% of benefits leaders say mental health is essential to sustaining business performance, with 83% agreeing it has become more important over the last three years.
- United States·Earnings
TrueBlue to report Q3 2026 earnings on Nov 4; consensus revenue $455.7 million
TrueBlue (NYSE: TBI) is set to release Q3 2026 earnings on Nov 4. Per GuruFocus, consensus expects revenue of $455.7 million and EPS of $0.08. Last quarter's revenue was $443.0 million, above expectations.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Argentina's Santa Cruz province orders mandatory conciliation in PECOM dismissal of six workers
Santa Cruz province's labour ministry in Argentina has ordered mandatory conciliation in the dispute over PECOM's dismissal of six workers, requiring the situation to revert to its pre-dismissal state while the measure applies. The dismissals are suspended during conciliation as the company and unions negotiate under provincial labour authority.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
New Zealand to remove 17 occupations from Green List Tier 2 from 8 March 2027
New Zealand announced on 3 November 2026 that 17 occupations will leave the Green List Tier 2 from 8 March 2027, shifting towards Skilled Migrant Category pathways, per Immigration New Zealand as cited by NRI Affairs. Transitional arrangements apply to eligible people already progressing through Work to Residence. Employers can still recruit via the Accredited Employer Work Visa where conditions are met.
- China·Policy & Law
Employers hiring university graduates can access social insurance subsidies, SOE pay-bill boosts, guaranteed loans and tax relief
The report outlines support for employers hiring university graduates: social insurance subsidies for small firms signing contracts of at least one year, one-off payroll increases for state-owned enterprises, and tax relief. Eligible small firms can get guaranteed loans of up to RMB 4 million for up to two years with 50% interest subsidy. Hiring graduates registered unemployed for over six months brings fixed tax deductions for three years.
- United States·Research
HR Tech 2026: 43% of attending HR professionals plan to buy HR technology within a year
Organizers said HR professional attendance at HR Tech 2026, held October 20-22 in Las Vegas, grew over 11% year over year. Of attending HR professionals, 43% plan to buy HR technology within a year, 91% shape purchases and 62% are Director-level or above. The event drew 7,000+ attendees and 235+ speakers.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
UAE: Employers must issue experience certificates free on request when contracts end
Under Article 13, Clause 11 of UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, employers must give workers an experience certificate on request when employment ends, free of charge, Gulf News reported. The certificate must state the job title or type of work and the reason for termination. It must not contain information that could damage the employee's reputation or job prospects.
- United States·Research
Littler Lightbulb publishes October 2026 employment appellate roundup
Littler's October 2026 employment appellate roundup highlights significant federal appeals court developments from the past month. In MacDonald v. Oregon Health and Science University (9th Cir. Oct. 2, 2026), the Ninth Circuit affirmed dismissal of a nurse's § 1983 and Title VII failure-to-accommodate claims over a COVID-19 vaccine requirement.
- United States·Research
Study: 65% of US workers fear retirement savings shortfall as costs and inflation bite
New research from a national nonprofit organization finds high living costs and persistent inflation are making it harder for American workers of all generations to save for retirement. The research says 65% of workers fear they will fall short on retirement savings.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK government consults on employment status reform, proposing changes to three-tier system
The UK Government launched a consultation on 14 October 2026, Make Work Pay: employment status reform and protections for the self-employed. It proposes changes to the three-tier system (employee, limb (b) worker, self-employed) and other procedural changes. The proposals remain at consultation stage.
- United States·Research
Littler report: employers should treat autonomy as a design decision to capture value of agentic AI in the workplace
Littler published a report, Agentic AI in the Workplace, advising employers to treat autonomy as a deliberate design decision, reimagine functions, adapt governance to emerging laws and preserve the record. It cites Gartner's 2026 CIO and Technology Executive Survey, which found AI agent deployment expected to rise from 17% in 2026 to more than 60% within two years.
- United States·Policy & Law
California AB 1198 requires mid-project prevailing wage increases on public works contracts of $35 million or more
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1198 on September 27, 2026, amending Labor Code section 1773.6 and adding section 1773.65. Beginning July 1, 2027, prevailing wage changes will apply mid-project to public works contracts with an awarded prime contract value of $35 million or more; previously wages stayed fixed at bid-time rates. The law does not address who bears the cost.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Philippines eases alien work permit processing to support hiring and investment
The Philippines has eased the processing of alien work permits to support hiring and investment, Traders Union reported.
- Europe·Research
European Commission publishes third implementation report on EU Roma Strategic Framework
The European Commission has published the third implementation report on the EU Roma Strategic Framework, covering June 2023 to March 2025. It says progress is visible in areas including employment and early childhood education and care, while outlining remaining challenges.
- United States·News
About 250 watchmen at LA/Long Beach ports poised to strike Wednesday, raising congestion fears
About 250 watchmen at the Los Angeles/Long Beach port complex are poised to walk off at 5pm Pacific on Wednesday if ILWU–PMA talks fail. They have worked under extensions since the contract expired in July 2025, and talks were extended from 1 November to 4 November. PMA says a stoppage would affect 85% of Long Beach and 33% of Los Angeles container traffic.
- Europe·Policy & Law
German Hamm labour court: employer need not act against accused if harassment claim cannot be established
The Hamm state labour court (case 18 SLa 485/25) ruled that an employer must investigate harassment allegations carefully but is not automatically required to take employment-law measures if nothing can be established. A hospital anaesthetist alleged a colleague kissed her neck and hugged her against her will; he denied a kiss. The hospital offered her a transfer, and her damages claim failed, per the German Bar Association.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Saudi Interior Ministry warns of up to six months' jail and SR100,000 fines for aiding labor violators
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior has warned that anyone transporting, hiring or sheltering violators of residency, labor or border rules could face up to six months in prison and fines up to SR100,000, ProPakistani reports. Expatriates involved face immediate deportation, and vehicles or property may be confiscated.
- United States·Research
Fortune op-ed: US employers announced 573,195 job cuts through September, 120,136 citing AI; hiring of young workers hit
Per Challenger, Gray & Christmas, US employers announced 573,195 job cuts through September, 120,136 of them citing AI, the top reason this year; tech cuts totaled 165,925, up 54%, while total cuts fell 39%. Stanford economists using ADP data found employment of 22-25-year-olds in the most AI-exposed jobs was about 19% below trend as of June, versus 15% a year earlier.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Report says labour reform has not stopped decline in formal employment
11 Noticias reports that the labour reform has failed to halt the decline in formal employment.
- United States·Research
Georgetown CSET report: nearly half of US STEM award winners foreign-born as visa tightening threatens talent pipeline
A September 2026 Georgetown CSET brief reviewed 550 winners of the Nobel, Lasker, Turing and MIT TR35 awards. Of 471 who had been in the US, 223 (about 47%) were foreign-born, and about two-thirds of the 184 with traceable entry routes arrived as students. The article warns that tighter F-1 and H-1B rules and higher OPT costs could damage the talent pipeline.
- United States·Policy & Law
Connecticut SB 5 takes effect: employers can't blame AI tools for discrimination, with notice duties from 2027
Connecticut's SB 5 took effect Oct. 1, 2026, barring employers from blaming AI tools for discrimination in hiring, promotion, discipline or termination decisions. Bias-testing evidence may be considered, and WARN layoff notices filed with the state must disclose AI-related causes. From Oct. 1, 2027, employers must give AI interaction and pre-decision notices, and HR tech vendors must supply compliance information.
- China·News
Yan'an University art school associate professor dies; apparent note cites research funding targets in tenure review
The death of Bai Baoguo, an associate professor at Yan'an University's Luxun Academy of Fine Arts, has drawn attention. According to Jiemian, an apparent note says he was told in September 2025 he faced demotion or reassignment for missing assessment targets in two consecutive terms, and criticizes horizontal research-funding quotas. The university had not responded by publication.
- United States·Policy & Law
US court rules for employer in FMLA retaliation case after employee fired for misreporting time
A grocery employee who had taken intermittent FMLA leave was fired on December 30, 2022 for misrepresenting time worked, about two weeks after a leave ended. He sued for discrimination and retaliation, but the employer won summary judgment on all claims. The court relied on security footage, his admissions, consistent enforcement and a decisionmaker unaware of his leave.
- Europe·Research
Gallagher survey: 93% of UK employers faced workplace disputes in past two years
A Gallagher survey of 501 respondents found 93% of UK employers dealt with at least one workplace dispute over the past two years, and 63% of those affected reported attempted legal action. Disputes cost more than £2,500 to resolve on average, and 59% said senior management, HR or legal teams spent at least 25 hours on them.
- Europe·News
Italian unions say conciliation with AIOP and ARIS at Labour Ministry failed over private healthcare contract, mobilisation to continue
Italy's Fp Cgil, Cisl Fp and Uil Fp said conciliation held at the Labour Ministry under Law 146/1990 ended with a record of failure to agree. The dispute concerns renewal of the private healthcare collective contract with AIOP and ARIS. The unions said they will continue mobilisation.
- United States·Research
Employers still winning most religious accommodation cases after Groff ruling, Cornell study finds
Employers still prevail in most religious accommodation disputes after the US Supreme Court's 2023 Groff v. DeJoy decision, according to new Cornell University findings reviewed by Bloomberg Law. Employers won pretrial dismissal in 76% of 46 post-Groff rulings, up from 51% in 49 decisions over the roughly two prior decades.
- Europe·News
ILO Türkiye office hosts high-level workshop in Ankara ahead of COP31 on just transition and decent work
The ILO Office for Türkiye held a high-level workshop in Ankara ahead of COP31, bringing together workers' and employers' organisations, senior ILO officials and the UN resident coordinator. Participants discussed priorities for a just transition, decent work and workers' rights, and how social dialogue can shape Türkiye's national just transition strategy, which is being prepared under the Ministry of Labour. Türkiye will host COP31 in Antalya.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Morocco's draft 2027 finance bill would tighten tax exemption conditions for salary allowances, planned for 2031
LesEco.ma reports that Morocco's draft 2027 finance bill (PLF 2027) proposes to clarify tax rules on representation, transport and travel allowances and tighten exemption conditions, distinguishing business expenses from disguised pay. The change is scheduled for 2031, in line with the gradual income tax reform, and does not abolish tax-exempt allowances.
- Europe·Research
Apprentices and smartphones: guardrails for social media use at work
A Personalwirtschaft column says employers need rules and attention around apprentices' smartphone and social media use. Citing the Youth in Germany 2026 study, 47% of 14–29-year-olds self-report more than four hours of daily smartphone time (not apprentice-specific), and 38% say excessive use hurts their performance.
- China·News
Ziyang justice bureau expands legal services for gig workers, recovering RMB 5.2083 million in unpaid wages
Ziyang's justice bureau says it held over 50 on-site legal outreach events this year for gig workers, answered 258 legal questions and mediated 85 wage arrears disputes. As of October it had accepted 392 legal aid cases and recovered RMB 5.2083 million in unpaid wages.
- China·News
Nanjing employee fired after not replying to messages during five-hour hike on day off
A woman in Nanjing was reportedly dismissed after not replying to messages during a five-hour hike on her day off, according to World Journal. A remark by the company drew online criticism.
- Europe·Research
Almost half of trans+ people hide their gender identity at work
HR Magazine reports that almost half of trans+ people hide their gender identity at work.
- United States·M&A
Upwork agrees to acquire global employment platform WorkMotion, launches Upwork Now and names new CFO
Upwork agreed to acquire global employment platform WorkMotion as it pushes deeper into international hiring services. It also introduced Upwork Now, an AI-based instant hiring product matching clients with available talent in real time, and appointed a new chief financial officer.
- China·Policy & Law
China retirement guidance: retirement month counts from birth month, earliest archive birth date prevails
Guangzhou Daily's Xinhuacheng, summarizing guidance from human resources and social security authorities, reports that the retirement month is the month of birth, with pension payments starting the month after approval. Where the ID card and personnel file differ, the earliest recorded birth date in the file prevails. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security has said it is promoting 'retirement pre-service' and a one-stop retirement process, though archive verification may still require documents.
- Asia-Pacific·Product
Philippine AI hiring platform Jia wins ASOCIO 2026 AI in Workforce & Future Skills Award
Jia, an AI hiring platform developed by Pasig-based White Cloak Technologies, won the AI in Workforce & Future Skills Award at the ASOCIO Digital & AI Awards 2026, the only Philippine winner. The company says Jia has helped more than 15 recruitment agencies cut daily candidate admin from hours to minutes, and plans to expand to Singapore and neighboring markets in 2027.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Six months after Argentina's Law 27,802, official data show over 241,000 registered jobs lost, informality at 45%
Radio Facundo Quiroga, citing SIPA, INDEC and IIEP data, reports a cumulative loss of more than 241,000 registered jobs and informality at 45% six months after Argentina's Law 27.802 on labour modernisation, passed in March 2026. Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger said he is not satisfied with business's response.
- Asia-Pacific·News
NTT DATA plans to expand Mangaluru workforce from about 900 to over 2,500 by end-2027
NTT DATA plans to expand its Mangaluru workforce from around 900 to more than 2,500 by the end of 2027, according to reports of a meeting with Karnataka IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge. The expansion will focus on healthcare and life sciences, high tech, automotive, manufacturing, AI and data, and the company is also planning a campus. The state is expected to support it through skilling, infrastructure and academic partnerships.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower publishes Employment Pass eligibility page
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower has published a page on Employment Pass eligibility on its website.
- Global·Research
Ask The Analyst: questions to ask when your HR technology vendor is acquired
Unleash's 'Ask The Analyst' column looks at what questions customers should ask when their HR technology vendor is acquired.
- China·Research
Hangzhou's Shangcheng District showcases HR services sector at 2026 Zhejiang HR Expo, citing 200-plus agencies
The 2026 Zhejiang HR Services Expo concluded in Hangzhou, where Shangcheng District ran a dedicated zone. The district reports more than 200 HR service agencies and annual sector output above RMB 30 billion. FESCO Adecco Zhejiang and Zhejiang Foreign Service were named to its first 'global service provider' list, and AI-plus-HR is the next development focus.
- Europe·Research
Mishcon de Reya's Kintish tells Telegraph employers are dismissing high earners before unfair dismissal changes
Susannah Kintish, Chair of Employment at Mishcon de Reya, commented in the Telegraph on employers dismissing high-paid workers ahead of changes to unfair dismissal laws. She also discussed the impact of AI on employment claims and tribunals. The article cites Mishcon de Reya research on interim relief in employment tribunals.
- Europe·Research
Economist Jean-Charles Simon criticises Agirc-Arrco's management costs and governance, calls for deep reform
NextPlz reports that economist Jean-Charles Simon criticises France's private-sector supplementary pension scheme Agirc-Arrco for management costs, contributions and governance despite large reserves, and calls for deep reform. In 2014 the Cour des comptes found its management costs 20% higher than those of Assurance retraite.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK Employment Appeal Tribunal upholds strike-out of NHS worker's claims in Byczko v Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
The UK Employment Appeal Tribunal on 2 November 2026 dismissed an appeal in Byczko v Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust [2026] EAT 167, upholding the strike-out of the claimant's claims. The claims covered disability discrimination, reasonable adjustments, constructive unfair dismissal and whistleblowing. The EAT said strike-out may be used where repeated attempts to clarify a case have failed and a fair hearing is no longer possible.
- China·Product
Tencent's WorkBuddy has handled 9 billion task requests since March launch, enterprise edition in 50+ industries
At Tencent's Global Digital Ecosystem Conference on Oct. 29, Tencent said WorkBuddy has completed 9 billion task requests since its early-March launch, with the enterprise edition used in 50+ industries, covering 50% of China's top 500 and 60% of top 100 enterprises. Tencent also launched Buddy One and Tencent Drive, and raised enterprise storage from 5GB to 50GB per seat.
- Europe·Research
Resolution Foundation: UK job satisfaction falls from 81% to 74%, willingness to go above and beyond drops to 55%
Resolution Foundation analysis of the British Social Attitudes survey found UK job satisfaction fell from 81% to 74%, the lowest in any wave. Workers willing to work harder than required fell from 69% in 2015 to 55% in 2025, while those seeing advancement opportunities fell from 35% to 26%. Those saying high income matters when choosing a job rose from 67% to 78%.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
ICRIER report: India's female workforce nearly doubles to 201 million, but job quality a concern
India's female workforce rose from 104 million in 2017-18 to 201 million in 2025, according to a new ICRIER report. The female worker population ratio increased from 22% to 38%, driven by rural areas (23.7% to 44.9%). The report says growth was concentrated in agriculture, self-employment and unpaid family work rather than regular salaried jobs.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
More lawyers leaving major law firms for in-house positions, Asahi reports
The Asahi Shimbun reports that more lawyers are leaving major law firms for in-house positions at companies.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch lower house passes five motions to simplify RI&E and reduce external review
On 13 October 2026 the Dutch House of Representatives adopted five motions (four from SGP and VVD, one from FVD) to simplify the RI&E workplace risk assessment for small employers, office organisations and chains. Minister Thierry Aartsen gave them 'oordeel Kamer'. The cabinet is asked to draw up a list of simplifications by January 2027, including scrapping mandatory external review. Existing obligations and works council rights remain in force for now.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK government launches default pension plans offering retirement income option to about 17 million private sector workers
The UK government launched plans for default pensions on 3 November, under which around 17 million private sector workers now saving into a pension would be given the option of an income in retirement. Defined contribution savers would get a new option through retirement collective pensions, offering many benefits of defined benefit schemes. The government says nine in 10 eligible private sector workers now save, up from four in 10 in 2012.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Pro-Kannada groups visit Bengaluru tech parks seeking IT firms' hiring data amid alleged discrimination controversy
Pro-Kannada activists have begun visiting Bengaluru technology parks to collect local employment data from IT companies, amid allegations of discrimination against Kannadiga candidates in private-sector hiring. Karnataka's DK Shivakumar urged groups not to target IT-BT firms and said the government would investigate complaints. The Kannada Rakshana Vedike launched a month-long statewide campaign from November 1.
- Europe·News
PwC UK chief criticises homeworking and wellbeing policies for holding back young employees
PwC's UK chief executive has criticised the impact of homeworking and wellbeing policies on young employees. He argues employers need to engage more actively with staff at the start of their careers.
- China·Policy & Law
AI-assisted labor arbitration pilot expands in China, aiming to ease workers' rights claims
The Beijing News reports that a pilot program using AI to assist labor arbitration has been expanded in China. The report looks at which steps the pilot could save workers when pursuing their rights claims.
- China·Policy & Law
Guiyang housing provident fund loan liquidity adjustment factor cut to 0.9 from Nov 2
Guiyang's housing provident fund center said loans accepted from Nov 2, 2026 will use a liquidity adjustment factor of 0.9; earlier-accepted loans are unaffected. The city's individual loan ratio rose to 98.92% at end-September, above the 95% control threshold.
- China·Policy & Law
Chongqing Dianjiang officials explain pension back-payment rules: over 3 years requires legally valid proof of employment
Dianjiang county officials replied to a resident whose employer did not pay social insurance for four years. Under Chongqing document Yu Ren She Fa [2021] No. 67, employers can back-pay pension contributions for periods of employment, no earlier than March 1993. Lump-sum back-payment of 3 years or more requires legally valid documents proving the employment relationship, such as from a court or labor arbitration commission.
- Europe·Research
University of Warwick research: fear of retaliation keeps workplace sexual harassment largely unreported
Fear of employer retaliation is keeping workplace sexual harassment largely unreported, according to research from the University of Warwick. The report described the finding as a striking signal.
- United States·People
Cisive appoints Brian Matthews as chief executive officer
Background screening and workforce risk management provider Cisive has appointed Brian Matthews as CEO, succeeding Margaret Keane, who will remain on the board. Matthews has more than two decades of data and technology leadership experience, previously serving as CEO of itel and President of Appriss Insights.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Western Visayas workers to get daily wage hike of up to P45 starting Nov. 19
Workers in Western Visayas in the Philippines will receive a daily wage increase of up to P45 starting Nov. 19, Inquirer.net reported.
- China·Research
Maimai hosts headhunter salon in Chengdu, says AI talent search is a growth area; one firm cited earning RMB 2 million commission on RMB 58,800
Maimai held a headhunter salon in Chengdu on October 29. Its recruitment head said one search firm earned RMB 2 million in commission on a RMB 58,800 spend, and claimed its AI recruiting agent exceeds 90% matching accuracy and that about 80% of AI talent is active on the platform.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's Workers' Statute gives wages priority over company debts if the firm goes bankrupt
Noticias Trabajo reports that under Spain's Workers' Statute, employees' wages take priority over a company's debts if the company goes bankrupt.
- China·Policy & Law
CYTS says 2026 executive pay plan ties performance pay rigidly to company results
CYTS (600138) said on its investor relations platform on 3 November that its 2026 executive compensation plan strengthens rigid constraints. The company said performance pay should generally account for no less than 60% of target annual pay, linking executive pay directly to operating results.
- China·Earnings
Beijing HR plans to hold Q3 2026 earnings briefing on November 11
Beijing Human Resources announced on November 3 that it plans to hold its Q3 2026 results briefing on November 11, 2026, from 15:00 to 17:00.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Germany's mini-job and midi-job thresholds to change from 1 January 2027
Haufe reports that the thresholds for mini-jobs and midi-jobs in Germany will change from 1 January 2027.
- United States·News
SixFifty founder Kimball Parker: structured data makes AI more reliable for legal compliance
SHRM reports that SixFifty founder Kimball Parker explains why structured, curated data is essential for AI-powered employment law compliance.
- United States·Research
Six Ohio employers file October WARN notices affecting over 420 workers, including Morton Salt mine
Six Ohio companies filed WARN notices in October 2026 indicating layoffs or closures affecting more than 420 workers, per the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Morton Salt's notice covers 77 layoffs on Oct. 26 at its Fairport Harbor mine after water began seeping in. Others include Packaging Corporation of America (91), The Blade (116), Markdom Plastics (82) and Pixelle (61).
- China·Policy & Law
China's NDRC: will strengthen monitoring of AI job displacement risk and align social security with employment shifts
At a Nov 3 press briefing, China's NDRC said it will strengthen monitoring and early warning on AI job displacement and better align the social security system with changing employment structures. It also plans to add new occupations such as model trainers and data annotators to the national occupational classification and speed up comprehensive AI legislation.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Indian roundtable discusses new labour codes' compliance burden on MSMEs, experts urge further review
A roundtable at Dr B.R. Ambedkar National Law University, organised with the Atal Incubation Centre at IIT Delhi, discussed how India's new labour codes affect MSMEs, including compliance thresholds and social protection. Rule 53 of the OSHWC Central Rules requires a canteen in establishments with 100 or more workers, down from 250 under the Factories Act, 1948, though state notifications may vary.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Bangladesh garment workers stage fourth day of wage protests
Bangladesh garment workers staged a fourth day of wage protests, Reuters reported.
- Europe·Research
Anwalt.de advises German employers on checks when staff claim overtime and working time is recorded
Legal portal Anwalt.de published guidance for employers on what to check when employees claim overtime and working time has been recorded.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Morelos official says Mexico's labor reform raises business costs as working hours to be cut gradually from 2027
Morelos Secretary of Economic Development and Labor Víctor Sánchez Trujillo acknowledged that Mexico's Federal Labor Law reform imposes higher financial demands on businesses. The reform took effect on 1 May 2026, but the 48-hour weekly cap stays this year, falling by two hours annually from 2027 to 40 hours in 2030. The law bars wage or benefit cuts during the transition, and electronic working-hours registration applies from 2027.
- China·News
Hefei's Luyang District opens city's first district-level employment and entrepreneurship center
Luyang District in Hefei, Anhui, has officially opened the city's first district-level employment and entrepreneurship empowerment center at 19 Funan Road. It offers one-stop job matching, startup incubation, skills training and rights protection for graduates, veterans, people with disabilities, hard-to-employ groups and employers. Facilities include an AI job-service pod, VR career experience machines and a livestream recruitment base.
- United States·M&A
Upwork surpasses Q3 guidance and announces WorkMotion acquisition
Upwork reported Q3 results ahead of its guidance and announced the acquisition of WorkMotion.
- China·News
JD.com says its JD Direct Hiring WeChat account lists 183 frontline job types, tens of thousands of openings
JD.com's official frontline recruitment channel is the "JD Direct Hiring" WeChat account and mini-program, which lists 183 job types across logistics, customer service, home services, engineering and retail, with tens of thousands of blue-collar openings. Jobs are posted and applications received by JD directly, without intermediaries. JD Logistics runs 8 standardized employment service centers.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's Labour Ministry has yet to publish mandatory report assessing whether labour reform cut temporary hiring
Pymes y Autonomos reports that Spain's Labour Ministry has not published the report due in January 2025 to assess the results of the labour reform, 21 months on. The reform, approved in December 2021, limited fixed-term contracts and favoured permanent hiring. A second review is due in January 2027.
- Global·News
ADP's Jimmy Adams discusses HR tech trends and AI-driven HR management in interview
HRTech Series published an interview with Jimmy Adams, President of National Account Services at ADP, on HR tech trends and process optimizations for an AI-driven HR era. Adams joined ADP in 2006 and previously led its global product development organization.
- China·Policy & Law
Yongchang County, Gansu inspects 13 platform employers on gig worker rights and promotes occupational injury protection
Yongchang County's human resources bureau recently inspected 13 delivery, ride-hailing and e-commerce firms on gig worker rights, covering labor contracts, social insurance, wage payment, rest and occupational injury protection. Problems were logged with rectification advice, and the bureau also ran outreach on occupational injury protection policies.
- Europe·News
Italy's ex-Ilva (AdI) seeks wider wage support for up to 8,622 workers and plans to cut 80% of executives
After halting its hot area, Acciaierie d'Italia (AdI) has requested new extraordinary wage support covering up to 8,622 employees, 6,964 of them in Taranto, versus 4,450 currently. Per Nuovo Quotidiano di Puglia, support would be topped up to 70% of pay and paid directly by INPS; the Labour Ministry has called talks for 6 November. AdI told Federmanager it intends to cut 80% of its 51 permanent executives.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Malaysia to turn away manufacturing investors relying heavily on low-skilled foreign labour
Malaysia will turn away manufacturing investors that rely heavily on low-skilled foreign labour, Human Resources Online reports.
- China·Policy & Law
2026 expanded social insurance subsidy policy continues, with applications open until year-end
The expanded social insurance subsidy policy for 2026 is continuing, with the application deadline set for the end of this year, according to a Sohu report.
- Europe·Policy & Law
German Federal Labour Court orders employer to pay €150,617.31 in variable pay after acknowledgment of claim
Germany's Federal Labour Court (BAG) issued an acknowledgment judgment after the defendant admitted the claim, ordering payment of €150,617.31 gross in variable pay plus interest at five percentage points above the base rate from 2 January 2022. The defendant also bears the costs. The judgment contains no substantive reasoning on variable pay.
- Global·Research
Undue hardship explained: where reasonable accommodation ends under US and Indian employment law
A feature explains 'undue hardship' in employment law, the point at which an employer need not provide an accommodation because of a sufficiently serious burden. It notes that the US ADA requires reasonable accommodation absent significant difficulty or expense, while Title VII religious accommodation uses a distinct standard. India's Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 has a similar principle. The 2023 US Supreme Court decision Groff v. DeJoy clarified the standard for refusing religious accommodation.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Employment officials from UK, Ireland, NZ and South Africa meet in Sydney on AI-generated unfair dismissal claims
Employment officials from the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and South Africa have gathered in Sydney to learn how Australia handles AI-generated unfair dismissal claims, AFR reported. Fair Work Commission president Justice Adam Hatcher said measures such as discouraging ineligible claims appear to be working, and warned reckless AI users to expect costs orders. New data suggests the surge in dismissal cases is starting to stabilise.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Malaysia's Gig Workers Tribunal orders photography firm to pay photographer unpaid income with 8% interest and RM500 costs
Malaysia's Ministry of Human Resources said on 2 November 2026 that the Gig Workers Tribunal ruled for photographer Muhammad Faizal bin Abdul Aziz against Pendekar Nomad Enterprise after a 27 October hearing. The firm must pay the full outstanding income, 8% interest until full payment, and RM500 in costs. The case falls under the Gig Workers Act 2025.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan to require stress checks at workplaces with under 50 employees from April 2028
Under the amended Industrial Safety and Health Act of May 2025, stress checks will become mandatory for workplaces with fewer than 50 workers from April 1, 2028. The health ministry has published an implementation manual for small sites. The system, introduced in 2015, had mainly applied to sites with 50 or more workers.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
SNEF survey: 85% of AI-supported HR use cases in Singapore still need human sign-off
A Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) survey of 1,000 employers, conducted June–July 2026, found 81% of large enterprises and 65% of SMEs use AI in at least one HR function. Of AI-supported HR use cases, 85% still require human confirmation or sign-off. Larger firms with over 200 employees are more likely to adopt AI-powered HR platforms.
- China·Research
Fudan institute article examines social insurance collection reform and pension sustainability in China
Fudan Development Institute published an academic-frontier piece on social insurance collection reform and pension expectations. It covers the sustainability of China's pension system, intergenerational equity and household behavior.
- Asia-Pacific·News
India's CITU plans indefinite Delhi protest from Dec 1 demanding repeal of labour codes
The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) plans an indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi from December 1, demanding repeal of the labour codes. CITU's Karnataka president said over one lakh workers are expected. Demands include a monthly minimum wage of ₹42,000 and a pension of ₹21,000.
- Asia-Pacific·People
Saurashtra Cement appoints Tusher Majumder as head of HR
Saurashtra Cement has appointed Tusher Majumder to head human resources. He has over two decades of experience in talent management, industrial relations, HR strategy and digital transformation, previously at Haldia Petrochemicals, JSW Cement, Varroc Polymers, Pidilite, Asian Paints and General Motors. In the role he will be classed as Senior Management Personnel.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Kyndryl's AIR framework aims to anticipate skills gaps; over 15,000 employees redeployed globally
Kyndryl has developed a framework called AIR (anticipate, inventory, reskill, redeploy) to identify future skills needs before gaps emerge. According to Rajita Singh, chief people officer for India, the company has redeployed more than 15,000 employees globally. AIR has run for eight to nine months in India, where Kyndryl employs about 26,000 people; Singh did not share India-specific figures.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission dismisses former Executive Inn employee's general protections claim filed 204 days late
Australia's Fair Work Commission has dismissed a former Executive Inn employee's general protections application, filed 204 days outside the 21-day limit. Deputy President Saunders found no exceptional circumstances under s 366(2), partly because the worker chose to pursue other claims first.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Australia to lift junior pay rates under retail, fast food, pharmacy awards from December 2026
The Fair Work Ombudsman has published the transition schedule following the Fair Work Commission's junior rates case (AM2024/24). From the first full pay period on or after 1 December 2026, retail, fast food and community pharmacy employees aged 18 to 20 begin moving to adult rates. Those with over six months' service get full adult rates from 1 July 2029. An 18-year-old starts at 75% under the Fast Food and Retail Awards, rising five points each 1 July and 1 December.
- China·Policy & Law
Hangzhou forum discusses pension and health insurance enrollment for gig workers
At the 29th Chengshi Yangtai consultation session in Hangzhou on 27 October, officials discussed pension and health insurance for gig workers. Hangzhou's human resources and social security bureau said its new occupational injury pilot, launched in 2025, covers 22 platforms in ride-hailing, instant delivery and intra-city freight, with nearly 2.5 billion orders protected as of end-September. Platforms pay 0.07 yuan per order.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Saudi Nitaqat to require higher pay for Saudi workers to count, raising Saudization credit cost 50% over 18 months
EnterpriseAM reports Saudi employers will soon have to pay Saudi workers more for the same job to count toward Nitaqat, raising the cost of a Saudization credit by 50% over 18 months. The statutory wage floor stays unchanged.
- United States·News
Microsoft reportedly offers voluntary buyouts to about 60,000 employees while raising $25 billion in bonds for AI
Microsoft has reportedly offered voluntary exit packages to around 60,000 employees. It is also raising $25 billion via a bond sale to fund AI infrastructure; reportedly priced Oct. 29, the offering drew orders of about $115 billion.
- China·Research
Research note says ByteDance is recruiting in volume for embodied AI roles
A weekly humanoid robotics industry research report carried by Stockstar says ByteDance is hiring in volume for embodied AI-related positions. The report also covers sector index performance and company updates.
- Europe·Policy & Law
France's BOSS confirms €1,000 fuel and EV charging bonus exemption cap applies to all 2026 without proration
France's Bulletin officiel de la Sécurité sociale (BOSS) confirms that the raised €1,000 exemption cap for the fuel bonus applies to all of 2026 without proration, per Editions Tissot. The temporary benefit also covers charging costs for electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen vehicles. The scheme is optional for employers and targets staff who must commute by private vehicle.
- United States·Policy & Law
Eleventh Circuit en banc ends mandatory ERISA exhaustion requirement for fiduciary-breach and other statutory claims
According to a Lowndes article, the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit ruled earlier this month to end the mandatory ERISA exhaustion requirement for fiduciary-breach and other statutory claims. The court's decisions bind federal courts in Florida, Georgia and Alabama.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Indian migrant charged $42,000 for two Christchurch jobs, neither paid wages
Awaaz reports that an Indian migrant was charged $42,000 for two jobs in Christchurch, neither of which paid wages. The first job ended within weeks, and the same broker arranged another for $12,000.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Netherlands to change wage definition in Minimum Wage Act from 2027
SalarisNet reports that the definition of wages in the Dutch Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act (WML) changes from 2027, affecting which pay components count toward the minimum hourly wage for employers and payroll administrators.