Wednesday 4 November
320 briefs · US Eastern time
- United States·Research
AI infrastructure bottleneck shifts to labor as electrician shortage and equipment delays stall US power projects
Jiemian reports that the AI buildout bottleneck is shifting from capital to labor. Ohio's Chestnut Run gas plant has $2 billion in funding but faces turbine delays of at least two years and a shortage of electricians and welders. Training a skilled electrician takes four to five years, the report says, and Jefferies analysts flagged labor shortages as a risk to the power cycle.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission dismisses former Leidos Australia IT worker's unfair dismissal claim filed 381 days late
Australia's Fair Work Commission has dismissed an unfair dismissal claim against Leidos Australia after the worker lodged it 381 days out of time. The Commission found no exceptional circumstances to justify extending the 21-day deadline.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Karnataka's local jobs reservation Bill remains on hold as government revisits proposal
Karnataka has again signalled it wants a law reserving private-sector jobs for locals, but the Bill, approved by Cabinet in 2024, is still not law. The original draft proposed reserving 50% of management and 70-75% of non-management roles, and all Group C and D jobs. It was shelved after industry pushback; Labour Minister Santosh Lad says the proposal is being revisited and has not been dropped.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Brazilian lawyer explains CLT worker absent one day may lose up to four days' pay in a holiday week
Lawyer Ivone Vieira says that under Article 6 of Brazil's Law 605/1949, an unjustified absence lets employers deduct that day's pay and possibly weekly paid rest (DSR). In weeks with a holiday, she says the calculation depends on contracted hours, schedule, pay and holiday features, and deductions cannot be applied indiscriminately.
- United States·News
Apple cuts some engineers' daily AI spending caps from $300 to $200, Bloomberg reports
Apple quietly cut the daily AI spending cap for some engineers from $300 to $200 last month, Bloomberg reported, citing people with knowledge of the matter. Further cuts to $100 for some engineering teams are planned, and $25 limits were considered for some non-engineering groups. Some divisions have brought in outside consultants, fueling layoff fears under CEO John Ternus.
- United States·News
Florida governor calls midterm rout 'close to extinction-level event', says Republicans failed to 'shut off H-1B visas'
Florida's governor called the midterm rout a 'close to extinction-level event' and said Republicans failed to 'shut off H-1B visas', The Hawk reported.
- United States·Research
US job openings rise by 330,000 in September, topping forecasts
US job openings rose by 330,000 in September, topping forecasts, according to the report.
- United States·News
Democrats seize Texas House, win Attorney General's office that ran H-1B probes
Democrats won the Texas House and the Attorney General's office that ran H-1B probes, The Hawk reported.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico's labor ministry says Industrias Tecnos completes MoU measures under USMCA rapid response mechanism
Mexico's labor ministry (STPS) says its investigation found no indication of violations of freedom of association or collective bargaining at Industrias Tecnos in Cuernavaca, Morelos, under the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism. Mexico and the US formalized preventive measures in an MoU on October 1, 2026. The company verified the status and payments of two terminated workers and issued a neutrality statement and zero-tolerance policy.
- United States·Research
Robert Half survey: 32% of US hiring managers say firms restored roles cut due to AI or automation
A Robert Half survey of 2,000 US hiring managers found 32% said their organisations brought back roles previously eliminated through AI or automation. The so-called 'AI boomerang' appears in functions such as customer service and engineering. Fast Company cited lost institutional knowledge, extra oversight and weaker productivity gains.
- China·Policy & Law
China issues elderly care service worker qualification rules; exams to be held generally once a year
China's Ministry of Civil Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security issued provisional rules on elderly care service worker qualifications and exam measures for junior and mid-level grades. Exams will generally be held once a year with two subjects, a pass mark of 60% of the full score, and results managed on a two-year rolling basis. The first exam date will be announced later.
- China·News
Regulating market order to promote the flow and allocation of human resources
A Chinese report discusses regulating market order to promote the flow and allocation of human resources.
- China·Research
SuperCLUE office-agent benchmark: Doubao Work ranks first with 85.33 points
SuperCLUE's October 2026 SuperCLUE-Office benchmark tested eight Chinese office-agent products on document processing, writing and data analysis. Doubao Work led with 85.33 points, ahead of Kimi Work (84.57) and WorkBuddy (83.99); the top four were within 2.65 points. The gap between highest and lowest scores was 32.20 points.
- United States·Research
Opinion: Democrats win Congress, but ability to change Trump's immigration agenda remains uncertain
Democrats won both chambers in the US midterms and flipped seven Senate seats, including Kansas, South Carolina and Texas, The Quint reported in an opinion piece. Writer Pulkit Buttan argues the win should not be read simply as a mandate for more liberal immigration policy. Robert Garcia, expected to head the House Oversight Committee, said ICE and DHS conduct will rank high among its priorities.
- United States·News
Contract talks for 250 security workers at LA-area ports continue past Wednesday deadline
Contract negotiations for 250 security workers at the busiest US seaports continued past a Wednesday evening deadline, Bloomberg Law reported. An earlier deadline had raised the threat of a strike affecting terminals at the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. ILWU Local 26 represents the watchmen, at terminals handling over half of the ports' combined cargo, per the PMA.
- United States·News
Democrats' Congress win offers hope on H-1B fees and India tariffs, indica News reports
indica News reports that the Democrats' Congress win offers hope on H-1B fees and India tariffs.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Bunge Campana plant shutdown puts about 250 jobs at risk as unions attend new Labour Ministry hearing on Nov 5
Unions have been called to a new hearing on Nov 5 at 9:30 at the Labour Ministry's Campana office over Bunge's plant in Campana, Argentina. The multinational has announced the end of production there, putting about 250 jobs at risk. Earlier meetings ended without concrete answers on the plant's future.
- Asia-Pacific·News
NAB delays exit dates for some laid-off staff to January 2027 after backlash over pre-Christmas cuts
NAB CEO Andrew Irvine told staff in an internal email that exit dates for non-voluntary redundancies going through redeployment move to 27 January 2027; those opting out of redeployment still leave 16 December. Consultation extends to 11 November. NAB had planned to cut 1,500 jobs before Christmas as part of 2,500 role cuts by mid-2027.
- China·Policy & Law
Chongqing labor bureau declines work-injury recognition for woman who fractured spine falling in company canteen at breakfast
A woman in Chongqing's Hechuan District fractured her lumbar spine and tailbone after falling in her company canteen on June 25, with medical costs of about 25,000 yuan. The local human resources and social security bureau declined to recognize it as a work injury, citing a citywide position covering only lunchtime. Her husband is considering administrative review or a lawsuit.
- United States·Research
IANS: Democratic Congress faces hurdles overturning $100,000 H-1B fee despite wins in both chambers
IANS reports Democrats are projected to win about 259 House and 54 Senate seats and control key immigration and tariff committees, but overturning Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee is not straightforward given possible vetoes. H-1B restrictionist Sen. Jon Husted exited, and Texas AG Ken Paxton lost his Senate bid. Indians accounted for about 70% of approved H-1B petitions in FY2025.
- United States·Research
Democratic congressional win may soften US immigration rhetoric but bring no immediate H-1B relief, experts say
A Democratic majority in Congress may shift the tone of the US immigration debate but is unlikely to bring immediate policy relief for Indian tech professionals or employers, experts told The Times of India. Cornell's Stephen Yale-Loehr noted Trump controls immigration agencies and can veto bills, and said hearings could lay groundwork for possible reform in 2029.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission upholds dismissal of worker who struck colleague at post-Christmas party bar
In Cameron Bell v Arts Centre Melbourne [2026] FWC 3212, Commissioner Perica upheld the summary dismissal of a maintenance officer who struck a colleague at a bar after the agency's 9 December 2024 Christmas party. About 20 of roughly 600 attendees went on to the bar, which ACM did not organise or fund. The Commission applied the Rose v Telstra test.
- China·News
China Energy Engineering restructures headquarters, moving HR department and four others under group company
China Energy Engineering has carried out a new round of headquarters restructuring, per Century New Energy Network. Five units, including the HR department (Party Committee Organization Department), became departments directly under the group company. Two units were merged into a Party Building Work Department, and a technology digital equipment management department and a digital intelligence center were set up.
- China·News
Shanghai's Hongkou District holds HR services industry cooperation event, launches HR partner circle
Shanghai's Hongkou District held its 2026 HR services industry cooperation event at North Bund Raffles City on November 4. It launched an HR collaborative partner circle with Shanghai Foreign Service among its first members, signed HR-service OPC (one-person company) community agreements, and set up a three-tier district-street-building service mechanism.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Philippines declares 2027 regular holidays and special non-working days under Proclamation No. 1427
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Proclamation No. 1427 on 8 September 2026, declaring 10 regular holidays, four special non-working days and one special working day for 2027, plus four additional special non-working days. The additional days are Chinese New Year (6 Feb), Black Saturday (27 Mar), All Souls' Day (2 Nov) and Christmas Eve (24 Dec).
- China·Policy & Law
Zhaoqing's new housing provident fund policy takes effect
Zhaoqing's new housing provident fund policy has formally taken effect, according to Sina mobile.
- China·Policy & Law
Suzhou announces 2026 unemployment insurance job-retention rebates: 60% for SMEs, 30% for large firms
Suzhou's human resources bureau announced the continued job-retention rebate from unemployment insurance: 30% of premiums paid last year for large firms and 60% for small and micro firms. Employers need 12+ months of full contributions to end-2025 and a 2025 layoff rate of no more than 5.5% (20% for firms with 30 or fewer staff). Confirmation and applications close on 31 December 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore Manpower Ministry gives written parliamentary reply on age discrimination complaints by jobseekers
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower issued a written reply to a 4 November parliamentary question from MP Alex Yeo on age-discrimination complaints by jobseekers in 2025 and 2026 to date.
- China·News
BOSS Zhipin recruits on site for Fortune 500 firms at WorldSkills competition
BOSS Zhipin recruited talent on site for Fortune 500 companies at the WorldSkills competition venue, according to Sina Mobile.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Clyde & Co Singapore tackles workplace bias through fairer work allocation, named HR Excellence Awards finalist
Before refreshing its DE&I strategy, Clyde & Co Clasis Singapore interviewed more than 10% of its fee-earning colleagues. The approach moved beyond unconscious bias training to changes in how work is allocated and how contributions such as mentoring and pro bono advice are recognised. The firm is a finalist for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the HR Excellence Awards 2026, Singapore.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore Manpower Ministry gives written parliamentary reply on digital verification of WSH training certificates
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower issued a written reply to MP Diana Pang Li Yen's question on whether it will consider requiring every workplace safety and health training certificate to be digitally verifiable for authenticity.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on wage and leave deductions during haze-related work stoppages
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to a parliamentary question from MP Eileen Chong Pei Shan. The question asks how many employees have reported wage or leave deductions linked to haze-related work stoppages since September 2026.
- United States·News
DeSantis criticizes Senate Republicans for failing to act on H-1B restrictions and other conservative priorities
In a social media post, Florida's DeSantis criticized Senate Republicans for failing to deliver bold conservative change, saying he saw no effort to restrict H-1B visas, codify Trump's immigration orders or limit court interference in deportations. The post says he blames this for voters staying home in the midterms.
- China·Research
China data: pharma sales rep postings averaged 9,800 yuan per month in Q1 2026
Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security data show pharma sales rep job postings averaged 9,800 yuan per month in Q1 2026; this reflects offered pay, not actual earnings. Among A-share drugmakers, BeiGene's 2025 average pay was 956,500 yuan. A Xinzhi white paper put median total cash pay for medical sales specialists at 227,000 yuan a year.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on no-reason terminations
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to MP He Ting Ru's parliamentary question on no-reason terminations. The question asks how the Ministry and the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management are applying the relevant rules.
- China·News
Zhang Xue Motorcycle campus hiring starts at 120,000 yuan, drawing criticism of low pay
Zhang Xue Motorcycle's campus recruitment offers start at 120,000 yuan, which has drawn criticism as too low.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on protection for PMETs working on contractual rest days
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to MP Lee Hong Chuang's parliamentary question. The question asks whether the Ministry has assessed the prevalence of professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) working on contractual rest days.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on resolution time for parental leave-related employment claims
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to MP Lee Hui Ying's parliamentary question on parental leave-related employment claims. The question asks about the average time taken to resolve such claims.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on contractual notice periods for job resignations
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published an oral reply to MP Low Wu Yang Andre's parliamentary question. The question asks whether the Government has data on the prevalence of contractual notice periods for job resignations.
- United States·Earnings
Barrett Business Services Q3 EPS falls to $0.69, cuts 2026 worksite employee growth outlook
Barrett Business Services' Q3 gross billings rose 3.2% to $2.4B and revenue rose 5%, while diluted EPS fell to $0.69 from $0.79. It cut its 2026 average worksite employee growth outlook to 1%–2% from 2%–3%, citing softness in client hiring, and kept its 3%–4% gross billings growth forecast.
- China·Policy & Law
Wuhan housing provident fund withdrawal rules take effect Nov. 20, allowing up to 180,000 yuan for home renovation
Wuhan's new housing provident fund withdrawal rules take effect on November 20. Households can withdraw up to 180,000 yuan for home renovation.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on work pass and occupational breakdown data
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published an oral reply to MP Gerald Giam Yean Song's parliamentary question. The question concerns the breakdown of the 9,200 non-resident employment growth in the second quarter of 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on applicability of haze guidelines to naturally ventilated workplaces
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published an oral reply to MP Eileen Chong Pei Shan's parliamentary question. The question asks whether the Ministry's 20 October 2026 haze guidance applies to employees in naturally ventilated workplaces.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on enforcement and adoption of haze guidelines for outdoor workers
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published an oral reply to MP Yeo Wan Ling's parliamentary question. Prompted by recent news reports on outdoor workers' health being adversely affected, the question concerns enforcement and adoption of haze guidelines.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Brazilian lawyer advises CLT workers selling vacation days to check allowance and one-third bonus calculations
Under Brazil's CLT, employees may convert up to one-third of vacation into cash, meaning up to 10 of 30 days. Lawyer Phelipe Pereira Cardoso says the choice is the worker's and employers cannot force it. Under Article 143, requests are due 15 days before the end of the accrual period, and payment is due two days before vacation starts.
- China·Policy & Law
Changde, Hunan rolls out 200-yuan housing fund account subsidy for gig workers
Changde, Hunan has processed the first case under its new housing provident fund subsidy for flexible workers. Those who open a personal account between Oct. 1, 2026 and Sept. 30, 2027 and contribute for 12 consecutive months can claim a one-off 200 yuan. Graduates with college diplomas or above need no social insurance proof.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Manufacturers slam Labor's $350m jobs fund
Manufacturers have criticised Labor's $350 million jobs fund.
- China·Policy & Law
Guangyuan's Chaotian district pays maternity leave subsidies to employers: 13,200 yuan for 6 firms
Chaotian district in Guangyuan, Sichuan, paid its first batch of employer subsidies for female employees' maternity leave in September, covering 6 firms and 6 employees for a total of 13,200 yuan. The one-off subsidy is set at 2,200 yuan, the second-tier monthly minimum wage in Sichuan, under a March notice from seven provincial departments. Another 18 employees' applications are under review.
- China·Research
Hong Kong's record 11,070 overseas-parented firms spur interest in fractional HR leadership
Government figures show Hong Kong had a record 11,070 companies with overseas parents in 2025, up 11% year on year, including 3,090 from the Chinese Mainland versus 1,550 from the US. Gwen Lockington of Lockington People and Advisory says many firms lack senior HR presence, and fractional HR leadership could fill the gap. She cites SMEs viewing HR as payroll administration as a barrier.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico's working-hours reform seen as chance to improve inclusion of deskless workers, column says
A decree published on 1 May 2026 cuts Mexico's weekly working hours gradually: 48 in 2026, 46 in 2027, 44 in 2028, 42 in 2029 and 40 in 2030, with no cut to pay or benefits, plus electronic time recording. It takes effect on 1 January 2027. In a column, Humand CEO Nicolás Benenzon argues it is a chance to review processes for deskless workers.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
PeopleStrong report: 69% of organisations still exploring or piloting HR AI, only 15% live
PeopleStrong's AI Ground Report 2026 says 84% of organisations have started some AI activity in HR, but 69% remain in exploration (35%) or piloting (34%), and only 15% have AI applications live. HR leaders said scaling a pilot requires solving a defined business problem, delivering measurable outcomes, integrating with existing systems and securing adoption.
- Europe·Product
Government-backed Business Backs Families hub launches to help UK employers support working parents
Business Backs Families, a digital hub set up by charity ReGenerate and supported by the Department for Education, launched on 5 November. It offers practical tools for employers, especially small firms. It estimates 2.5 million parents of under-fives are in the UK workforce, and ReGenerate research found satisfaction rose for 94% of respondents where supportive practices existed.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Ombudsman, Border Force and LGIRS target Perth in joint inspections
The Fair Work Ombudsman, Border Force and LGIRS are targeting Perth in joint inspections.
- Europe·People
Holland and Barrett names Michelle Boothroyd chief people officer; Bibby Financial Services appoints HR director
Personnel Today's roundup of senior HR appointments from September to November covers SD Worx, McDonald's, Currys and Holland and Barrett. Holland and Barrett appointed Michelle Boothroyd, formerly chief people officer at Grainger, as chief people officer. Bibby Financial Services appointed Sarah Bould, who has over 25 years' experience, as HR director.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Argentine bank workers' union backs judge Ojeda, probed after suspending 82 articles of labor reform at CGT's request
Argentina's bank workers' union La Bancaria defended labor judge Raúl Ojeda, who faces a Council of the Magistracy file after precautionarily suspending 82 articles of the labor reform at the CGT's request. Union official Jorge Rodríguez called it persecution and discipline. He also said branches once staffed by about 30 now run with five or six because of technology.
- China·Research
AI office race shifts to industry use cases as Qianwen Office e-commerce edition opens invite-only testing on Oct. 14
Competition in China's AI office-agent market is shifting from general model capability to industry scenarios, the report says. Qianwen Office opened invite-only testing of its first industry edition, for e-commerce, on Oct. 14. A week earlier WorkBuddy added a standalone file browser and Doubao Work added a creative canvas; Doubao Work has been updated over 20 times since its late-August launch.
- China·Policy & Law
China's military civilian personnel recruitment opens registration November 5, with unified written exam on December 13
Registration for China's military civilian personnel recruitment runs from November 5 to 10, 2026, with the unified written exam on December 13. The fee is 50 yuan per subject. Age limits are 18–35 for lower-grade posts and 18–45 for higher-grade and intermediate technical posts. From 2026, pass marks are set so that 90% of candidates qualify.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Posts on social media say Microsoft Vietnam staff summoned to mandatory meeting, one claims engineer layoffs
Per a VnExpress International opinion piece, people claiming to work at Microsoft Vietnam posted on social media that they were called to a mandatory in-person meeting titled 'Important Business Update', with HR staff present. One poster said it concerned laying off engineers before the post was hidden. The claims are unverified.
- United States·Research
JOLTS report shows sharply higher US job openings
Yield PRO reported that the JOLTS report shows sharply higher job openings.
- China·Research
Many large firms use AI interviewers in hiring; 66% of fresh graduates use AI for job search
Sina reports that many large companies use AI interviewers in recruiting, and 66% of fresh graduates use AI to assist their job search.
- United States·Policy & Law
FordHarrison: Recent significant settlement shows Illinois AG's commitment to enforcing restrictive covenant laws
FordHarrison's Noncompete News Alert says a recent significant settlement demonstrates the Illinois Attorney General's commitment to enforcing restrictive covenant laws. It notes that restrictive covenants, noncompetes in particular, have long been a challenge for Illinois employers.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
CanadaVisa releases calculator after IRCC adds high-wage factor to Express Entry CRS
On November 3, 2026, IRCC added the Labour Market Integration Factor (LMIF) to the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System, awarding extra points for high-wage occupations. Candidates now score the higher of up to 150 points for Canadian work experience or up to 100 points for a high-wage job offer. CanadaVisa released a free calculator reflecting the change.
- Asia-Pacific·M&A
David Jones enters voluntary administration, leaving jobs of more than 6,000 staff uncertain
David Jones has entered voluntary administration for the first time in 188 years, with McGrathNicol appointed administrators and Hilco Capital's appointee Christopher Hill of FTI Consulting as receiver. The chain runs 38 stores across Australia and New Zealand with over 6,000 staff. Per the AFR, talks with landlord Scentre Group failed; FTI is expected to update on closures and job losses this week.
- United States·Research
Center for Immigration Studies asks whether $100,000 fee will pave way to end Optional Practical Training
The Center for Immigration Studies published a piece titled "Will a $100,000 Fee Pave the Way to the End of Optional Practical Training?"
- United States·Research
Attorney says Democratic Congress unlikely to speed immigration reviews as White House keeps control
Immigration attorney Wei-Yu Chen says that despite Democrats winning control of Congress in the midterms, immigration policy remains driven by the White House and green card and citizenship reviews may not speed up. Congress can hold hearings, but H-1B and F-1 rules implemented administratively won't lapse automatically. He sees broad change possibly awaiting the 2028 election.
- United States·People
NLRB general counsel names agency veteran Jessica Foley as New England Region 1 director
NLRB General Counsel Crystal Carey named longtime agency employee Jessica Foley as Region 1 Director, overseeing union elections and unfair labor practice investigations. Region 1, with offices in Boston and Hartford, covers six New England states. Foley has over two decades of field office experience.
- United States·Policy & Law
Illinois federal court denies Deere's motion to dismiss ERISA severance claims
A federal court in Illinois denied Deere & Co.'s motion to dismiss ERISA claims by a product manager and a senior software engineer. It found the severance program was an ERISA plan and that the employees plausibly alleged pretextual terminations to avoid severance and a breach of fiduciary duty by withholding information. The ruling is dated Nov. 2.
- United States·News
City of Portland workers could be headed for strikes
NW Labor Press reports that City of Portland workers could be headed for strikes.
- Global·Partnership
Go1 partners with OpenAI to expand access to OpenAI Academy courses
Go1 has partnered with OpenAI to expand access to OpenAI Academy courses.
- United States·Policy & Law
Massachusetts high court appears to doubt Nantucket's rationale for denying PFML implementation
Massachusetts' highest court appeared Wednesday to push back on Nantucket's assertion that it cannot implement the state's Paid Family and Medical Leave Act for town employees despite a town meeting vote, because some unions have not agreed to bargain over the cost, Law360 reported.
- Global·Research
Change debt, not change fatigue, is driving burnout, Wiley research shows
New research from Wiley Workplace Intelligence says workplace changes pushed through without explanation or completion create "change debt" that drives change fatigue. Surveying more than 1,400 employees, Wiley found restructuring and new leadership were among the biggest contributors. It says the pattern can lead to burnout, lost trust in leadership and retention problems.
- United States·Policy & Law
DOL opens applications for Registered Apprenticeship pay-for-performance payments of upwards of $6,000 per apprentice
The U.S. Department of Labor announced Monday that Registered Apprenticeship sponsors can now apply for upwards of $6,000 in direct payments per apprentice through the Pay-for-Performance Incentive Payments Program. The program comprises six incentive funds run by state governments, university trustees and private foundations and associations. In February the administration said it sought to expand it via a $145 million grant.
- United States·Policy & Law
California AB 2150 requires employers mandating CPR training to add naloxone training from Jan. 1, 2027
Under California AB 2150, beginning January 1, 2027, California employers that require cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification training of their employees must add naloxone training.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
IRCC updates temporary residence wait times: work permits down three weeks for US applicants
IRCC released updated temporary residence wait times on Nov. 4, 2026: work permits down three weeks for US applicants, work permit extensions down one week, and study permits up two weeks in Canada and one week in Nigeria but down one week in Pakistan. Inventory fell by 5,200 applications, including 4,800 work permit applications. The next update is expected around Nov. 11.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Malaysia's online hiring rises 27% year on year in August, slowest gain since March, foundit says
Malaysia's online recruitment rose 27% year on year in August, the slowest gain since March, per the foundit Insights Tracker. Hiring fell 7% month on month, the second straight decline, leaving the index 12% below its June peak. Eight of 10 industries grew, led by engineering, construction and real estate (+38%); retail fell 23%.
- United States·Policy & Law
Haynes Boone: Plan sponsors may be able to use surplus 401(h) assets to pay medical benefits for older active employees
Haynes Boone says plan sponsors with overfunded Code Section 401(h) retiree medical accounts now have another way to use that surplus. The assets may be usable to pay medical benefits for older active employees.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore investigates about 45 firms supplying workers to SATS over suspected work pass violations
Singapore is investigating about 45 companies that supplied workers to SATS, after roughly 270 foreign workers, including some on Employment Passes, were allegedly deployed as baggage handlers in breach of work pass rules. The ministry cites suspected offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, including false declarations and illegal deployment. It has directed SATS to strengthen oversight of its contractors.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Saudi Arabia lets skilled workers bring dependents and raises salary requirement tied to Saudization rates
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior has announced that skilled workers may now bring family members to the Kingdom, including spouses. The salary requirement to meet Saudization rates has also been increased, according to WR Immigration.
- United States·Earnings
DHI Group Q3 2026 revenue flat at $32.2 million; ClearanceJobs revenue up 18%
DHI Group reported Q3 2026 total revenue of $32.2 million, flat year over year. ClearanceJobs revenue was $16.5 million, up 18%, with bookings up 32%; Dice revenue was $15.7 million. Investing.com said EPS beat estimates by $0.05 and revenue topped forecasts.
- United States·News
Ogletree to host Jan. 13 webinar on DEI enforcement risk roadmap for 2027
Ogletree will host a webinar on January 13, 2027 on DEI enforcement risk. It says that in 2026 the EEOC made DEI-related discrimination its top enforcement priority and DOJ secured multimillion-dollar False Claims Act settlements from federal contractors. Speakers will outline likely 2027 agency and private-plaintiff activity and what employers should do in the first quarter.
- United States·News
Guide: How employers can turn Trump Accounts into a savings benefit for employees
Employee Benefit News says employers can let workers make pretax contributions to Trump Accounts, with HR-led education, payroll contributions and employer matching. Aon partner Grace Lattyak said it is a good time for employers that haven't started to think about how they will interact with the accounts. The piece also points to upcoming account rollover rules.
- United States·Policy & Law
Democratic takeover of Congress puts retirement reform advocates in key committee roles, opening 2027 legislative possibilities
Democrats' takeover of both chambers of Congress in Tuesday's midterms is set to reshape the committees handling retirement policy, 401(k) Specialist reported. Several longtime retirement reform advocates will gain influence. American Retirement Association CEO Brian Graff said bipartisan legislation on savings access, tax incentives and participant protections may be possible in 2027.
- United States·Earnings
First Advantage tops Q3 EPS estimates by 4 cents and offers guidance
First Advantage (FA) topped third-quarter EPS estimates by 4 cents and offered guidance, StreetInsider reported.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Brazil: lawyer says commissions and overtime must be averaged into 2026 13th salary for CLT workers
Labour lawyer Felipe Scheifer de Castilho says commissions, habitual overtime and night-shift premiums must be included in the 13th salary of CLT workers in 2026, calculated as an average rather than on the last payment. He cites Decree No. 10,854/2021 and Superior Labour Court (TST) case law.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
WHO says 12 billion working days lost to depression and anxiety; experts say burnout needs load management
The WHO reports 12 billion working days are lost globally to depression and anxiety this year. Gallup's 2026 research shows 50% of workers in Canada and the U.S. report higher daily stress, versus a 40% global average. Former Walmart and IKEA CHRO Nabeela Elsayed says employers should focus on load management rather than individual resilience.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil's Labour Ministry prepares decree to regulate end of 6x1 work schedule, with flexibility through collective bargaining
Brazil's Labour and Employment Ministry is preparing a decree to regulate the end of the 6x1 work schedule. The draft text would let companies in different sectors adapt operations through specific agreements rather than impose a single rigid model. Among options discussed is alternating rest days across monthly cycles, with negotiated accumulation and compensation.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil's labor minister says decree regulating end of 6x1 work schedule to be published Nov. 9
Brazil's Labor Minister Luiz Marinho said on Nov. 4, 2026 that the decree regulating the end of the 6x1 work schedule is expected to be published on Nov. 9, after a meeting with President Lula on Nov. 5. It implements the constitutional amendment promulgated Oct. 16, guaranteeing formal workers at least 8 days off per 30 days. The weekly limit is to fall gradually from 44 to 40 hours, starting Dec. 15, 2026.
- United States·Research
Voya sees hardest stop-loss market ever
Voya sees the stop-loss market as the hardest it has ever been, BenefitsPRO reports.
- United States·Research
What the U.S. midterm results mean for HR leaders: health costs, AI and immigration in focus
Democrats won control of Congress in Tuesday's midterms, Human Resources Director reports. CHRO Association's Chatrane Birbal expects the 120th Congress to focus on affordability, workplace AI and investigative hearings, with answers likely coming through oversight rather than new laws. An AP-NORC poll found 69% of voters called health care a top issue.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil plans to publish decree on end of 6x1 work schedule on 9 November, guaranteeing at least eight days off a month
Brazil's Labour and Employment Ministry plans to publish on Monday (9 November) a decree regulating the end of the 6x1 work schedule, Minister Luiz Marinho confirmed. The text guarantees at least eight days off per month, with flexibility via collective bargaining between companies and unions.
- Europe·Research
Akin Gump UK whistleblowing update: FCA received 333 new reports between April and June 2026
Akin Gump's UK whistleblowing update says the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) received 333 new whistleblowing reports between April and June 2026, broadly in line with previous numbers.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
U.S. midterms won't shift Canada's 2027 pay budgets, experts say, with salary budgets near 3% for a third year
Compensation experts say U.S. midterm results are unlikely to substantially change Canadian employers' 2027 plans. Salary budgets remain around 3% for a third straight year, so decisions centre on where to target money, pay structures and communication. Robert Half says greater stability may let some employers proceed with hiring plans.
- United States·Research
Americans wary of AI in diagnosis and insurance decisions, study finds
A study finds Americans are wary of the use of AI in medical diagnosis and insurance decisions.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico's labor ministry denies link between Velagro agro-export labor verification platform and avocado pest
Mexico's Labor Secretariat (STPS) rejected any relationship with avocado prices or the fruit's sanitary issues. For Michoacán export producers, rollout of the Velagro agro-export labor verification platform coincided with the appearance of the avocado borer pest, but STPS denied any link.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexican trucking sector asks STPS for a working-hours reduction that is fair to freight transport
Mexico's freight transport sector has asked the Labor Secretariat (STPS) for a working-hours reduction that is fair to the sector, Revista TyT reported.
- United States·News
Gardena City Council unanimously approves GTrans bus operators' first union contract
Gardena City Council in California unanimously approved GTrans bus operators' first union contract with SMART-TD at its October 27 meeting. Operators had ratified it in September 2026. The two-year agreement includes retroactive and future wage increases, stronger Just Cause protections and improved overtime pay, according to the union.
- United States·Policy & Law
DHS proposes OPT fees: $70,000 for first recommendation, $30,000 for each subsequent one
Per WR Immigration, a proposed DHS rule would require schools to pay $70,000 for an F-1 student's first OPT recommendation, covering pre- and post-completion OPT, and $30,000 for each subsequent recommendation, including STEM OPT extensions. The proposal is not currently in effect.
- China·Research
Embodied AI talent race: CNY 500,000 annual salary jokingly called 'cabbage price'
Sohu reports intense competition for talent in embodied intelligence, where an annual salary of CNY 500,000 is jokingly described as a 'cabbage price'.
- United States·Policy & Law
Seyfarth: Texas court extends forfeiture-for-competition rule beyond executive compensation
Seyfarth Shaw reports that a Texas court has extended the forfeiture-for-competition rule beyond executive compensation. Texas law draws a narrow line between a covenant restricting an employee's ability to compete and an incentive that rewards the employee.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canada to roll out training for prosecutors and police on investigating workplace deaths as criminal negligence from Dec. 1
A training program for Crown prosecutors and police to investigate workplace deaths as criminal negligence will roll out across Canada on Dec. 1. It aims to close the enforcement gap left by the Westray Law (Bill C-45), which amended the Criminal Code in 2004. A lawyer says senior management could face greater criminal scrutiny.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Express survey: 20% of Canadian managers plan more seasonal hires, 81% see them as a route to full-time staff
An Express Employment survey finds 20% of Canadian managers say their company plans to hire more seasonal workers than a year ago, and 81% say seasonal roles are a great way to find full-time employees. Western University's Hayden Woodley says converting them requires a structured trial period and deliberate people management.
- United States·Product
Workday launches autopilot AI agents, partners with Anthropic and schedules quarterly results
At its Rising customer conference in Las Vegas, Workday launched autopilot AI agents that work in the background and ask people to approve key steps. It also introduced a decision intelligence offering for people and finance teams and announced a partnership connecting Anthropic's Claude with Workday's Sana agents via the Model Context Protocol. Workday will report quarterly results after market close.
- Europe·News
Arkane union accuses Microsoft of 'sabotaging' Marvel's Blade with 19-month hiring freeze
The Arkane Lyon union accuses Microsoft of sabotaging Marvel's Blade with a 19-month hiring freeze. It says the freeze caused the delays Microsoft now cites to close the studio. The claims are the union's allegations.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK Employment Appeal Tribunal challenges assumption that outward confidence means no stress in recruitment case
BCLP reports that the UK Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) challenged the assumption that a candidate who appears outwardly confident is not experiencing stress, in a recruitment case involving neurodiversity.
- United States·Research
Northwestern Mutual index: Americans' prosperity score rises to 71, up three points in six months
Northwestern Mutual's second Personal Prosperity Index, issued Nov. 4, found Americans' overall personal and financial wellbeing score at 71 out of 100, three points higher than six months earlier. Concerns over cost of living, the economy and politics persist, while financial advice was linked to higher wellbeing scores.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
US midterm results could temper Trump immigration agenda, lifting sentiment among Indian students on H-1B and OPT pathways
The Economic Times reports that Democrats' midterm sweep could reassure Indian students hoping to study and work in the US. Experts say the result may act as a check on further curbs on student visas, OPT and H-1B pathways, but existing restrictions are unlikely to change immediately as Trump controls the executive branch.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Sun Life report: Canadian mental-health practitioner claims up nearly 3.5-fold since 2019
A Sun Life report based on data from over 20,000 employer groups for 2019–2025 found mental-health practitioner claims rose nearly 3.5-fold since 2019, and the share of employees claiming rose nearly 2.5-fold. Claims more than tripled among employees aged 30 and under. Average CAP savings balances grew over 30% across nearly every industry since 2022.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Italian Constitutional Court removes six-month cap for pre-March 2015 hires at small employers in unlawful dismissals
In Judgment No. 174 of 22 October 2026, the Italian Constitutional Court addressed remedies for employees in unlawful dismissals. According to K&L Gates, the ruling removes the six-month cap for employees hired before 7 March 2015 by small-sized employers.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Ukraine to pay energy and utility workers additional UAH 30,000 for restoring infrastructure after Russian attacks
Ukraine's government has introduced monthly payments for workers restoring critical infrastructure after Russian attacks. Energy and utility workers will receive an additional UAH 30,000.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Italy unemployment benefit: distance alone is not just cause for resignation after a transfer
A McDermott Will & Schulte article notes that in Italy an employer's power to change an employee's place of work is a clear expression of its managerial and organizational authority. It says distance alone does not constitute just cause for resignation in the context of unemployment benefit.
- United States·News
Beyond FMLA and CFRA: California leave laws employers often overlook
Law.com's The Recorder published a practical rundown of lesser-known California leave laws beyond FMLA and CFRA, saying such leaves arise more often than employers expect.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Mexico's STPS says electronic working-hours registry guidelines due by Nov. 15; trucking groups attend talks
Trucking group CANACAR met STPS officials led by Deputy Secretary Quia Chávez. STPS said guidelines for electronic registration of working hours will be published by Nov. 15, 2026 at the latest, with possible adjustments for specially regulated activities such as trucking. Implementation should be gradual and flexible, distinguish driving, availability, waiting and rest time, and not impose a specific platform.
- Canada & Latin America·News
About 57,000 Ontario CUPE education workers begin strike mandate vote
The Ontario School Board Council of Unions, representing about 57,000 CUPE education workers, opened its central strike-mandate vote at 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 4. Balloting runs until 6:00 p.m. on Nov. 18. Contracts remain expired, and other unions have set later voting dates.
- United States·Policy & Law
Washington L&I and Seattle Office of Labor Standards announce 2027 minimum-wage rates
On September 30, 2026, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and the Seattle Office of Labor Standards announced minimum-wage rates. Seyfarth Shaw says the 2027 increase involves more than just a minimum-wage rise.
- United States·Policy & Law
Connecticut governor signs SB 5 AI law with new obligations for employers using AI
On May 27, 2026, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont signed SB 5 (Public Act No. 26-15), a sweeping AI law with new obligations for employers that use AI. Cooley's article outlines what employers and developers need to know.
- United States·Policy & Law
Eleventh Circuit rules no exhaustion required for ERISA statutory claims in Bolton v. Inland Fresh Seafood
The full U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit ruled in Bolton v. Inland Fresh Seafood Corp. of Am., Inc., No. 24-10084. BakerHostetler reports the court held that exhaustion is not required for ERISA statutory claims.
- United States·Policy & Law
Massachusetts federal court grants Harvard summary judgment in Gino sex discrimination suit
A Massachusetts federal court granted Harvard summary judgment on a tenured professor's Title VII and Title IX sex discrimination claims. It found she failed to show a causal link between her sex and tenure revocation or to show pretext, after Harvard revoked tenure following a research misconduct finding. The ruling is dated Nov. 2.
- Canada & Latin America·Partnership
Miller Thomson to send 12 lawyers to HRFest Canada 2026 as legal sponsor
Miller Thomson LLP has signed on as legal sponsor of HRFest Canada 2026 and plans to send 12 labour and employment lawyers. The event runs Nov. 10-11 at Rebel in Toronto, with more than 750 HR professionals and upwards of 120 speakers. It includes The Vault, a stage for employment law and compliance discussions.
- Global·Product
Deel launches Deel Security to spot fake remote hires, available in 150+ countries
Deel has launched Deel Security, a workforce identity verification product for recruitment and employment, available in more than 150 countries. It flags forged documents, stolen identities and AI-generated personas. Deel cited Censuswide research of 1,011 UK and US HR professionals: 66% reported more suspicious remote applications and 93% were concerned about deepfake workers.
- United States·Policy & Law
5th Circuit upholds NLRB bargaining order against Texas Hyatt hotel operator
The Fifth Circuit upheld an NLRB decision ordering a Texas Hyatt hotel operator to bargain with a UNITE HERE local. The court ruled the company failed to establish that the union interfered with employees' free choice when they voted for representation.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Canadian employer faces nearly $675,000 in damages after bad-faith investigation; article outlines legal duties
One Canadian employer faced nearly $675,000 in damages after a bad-faith investigation, the article says. It explains that in Ontario, British Columbia and elsewhere a workplace investigation is a legal obligation. In B.C., employers must have a written policy and reporting procedure and investigate complaints promptly, fairly and confidentially.
- United States·Policy & Law
Democrats' midterm win puts Trump's H-1B and import restrictions under greater scrutiny
Democrats won both the House and Senate in the November 3 US midterms, with the new Congress taking office in January 2027, The New Indian Express reported. The shift could bring greater scrutiny of Trump's immigration policies, including H-1B fees, employer requirements and foreign worker selection. Keka HR's Tapan Acharya said H-1B reform is unlikely to be an immediate Democratic priority.
- United States·Research
Aptitude Research: 79% of hourly workers have abandoned applications; only 22% of employers respond to 90%+ of frontline applicants
Aptitude Research's Frontline Workforce Report 2026, sponsored by Workday and Brilliant, finds 79% of hourly workers have abandoned an application because it took too long, and only 22% of employers respond to 90% or more of frontline applicants. 78% of workers have used an AI assistant or chatbot when applying, and 67% said it improved the experience. 74% of employers use AI in frontline hiring.
- United States·Policy & Law
New York Department of Labor issues guidance on Trapped at Work Act, effective Dec. 19, 2026
The New York State Department of Labor issued guidance clarifying the Trapped at Work Act, which restricts "stay or pay" agreements that, as a condition of employment, require repayment if employment ends before a specified date. It covers only new agreements or new or amended terms entered into on or after December 19, 2026, when the law takes effect. Fines range from $1,000 to $5,000; there is no private right of action.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Sherritt to temporarily lay off about 280 employees, nearly half of Canadian staff
Sherritt International said it will temporarily lay off about 280 employees, 47% of its Canadian workforce, for roughly 90 days. Its Alberta refinery shut earlier this year after feed from the Moa mine in Cuba ran out. Ammonia fertilizer and sulphuric acid production and sales, maintenance, and environmental and safety work will continue.
- United States·News
Ultragenyx to lay off 20% of workers, reduce real estate footprint as it cuts R&D
Ultragenyx will lay off 20% of its workers and reduce its real estate footprint as it cuts back on research and development, The Business Journals reports.
- United States·Research
After Republican setback in US midterms, Trump's H-1B crackdown and India tariffs draw fresh attention
Oneindia reported that the Republican setback in the US midterms has refocused attention on Trump's immigration stance, the H-1B visa programme and trade ties with India. Indian-American Democrats won key races, including Ro Khanna in California's 17th District, while Republicans such as Vivek Ramaswamy lost. The outcome raised questions about support for Trump's policies among Indian-American voters.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK employment tribunal allows claimant to use AI in preparing disability materials in Samuels v First Element Group
In Samuels v The First Element Group Ltd (ET 6004283/2025), an employment tribunal allowed a claimant to use AI when preparing his disability-related materials. Paul Hastings LLP discusses whether evidence prepared by AI remains evidence.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Colombia's CGT to take part in 2027 minimum wage negotiations, Labor Ministry says
The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), through its Mayorías Territoriales sector, confirmed it will take part in the table setting Colombia's 2027 minimum wage. The announcement came at a Nov. 4, 2026 meeting in Bogotá attended by Labor Minister Natalia Eugenia López Fuentes and Vice Minister Juliana Patricia Morad Acero. The group says it brings together ten departmental and four national federations.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Colombia's Labor Ministry meets international union leaders and announces Labor Statute proposal
Colombia's Ministry of Labor held a high-level summit with representatives of global and regional union confederations and the national centrals CUT, CGT and CTC, described as unprecedented in the country. Labor Minister Natalia López Fuentes said ministry decisions result from rigorous technical review aimed at legal certainty without undermining workers' fundamental rights. The ministry also announced a proposal for a Labor Statute.
- United States·M&A
Hudson Talent Solutions acquires 100% of Cornerstone RPO to expand in US
Hudson Talent Solutions, an RPO provider, acquired a 100% stake in North America-based Cornerstone RPO to expand its US business. Cornerstone co-founder Rodney Ashby will join Hudson as senior VP, revenue and business development – Americas. Terms were not announced.
- United States·Policy & Law
Sysco worker alleges he was fired after approved paternity leave was counted as misconduct
A worker at Sysco Metro New York's Jersey City facility filed a federal lawsuit on November 3, 2026 in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey. The complaint alleges Sysco treated his 2025 paternity-leave absences, approved via The Hartford, as attendance infractions, disciplined and suspended him, and then fired him. The allegations have not been tested in court.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
ADGM Court dismisses employee's constructive dismissal claim in corporate reorganization case
The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Court of First Instance dismissed an employee's claim for constructive dismissal and related compensation in the context of a corporate reorganization. Morgan Lewis analysed the ruling.
- United States·Policy & Law
Wyoming Supreme Court affirms dismissal of University of Wyoming worker's sex discrimination claims on procedural grounds
The Wyoming Supreme Court on November 3, 2026 affirmed dismissal of all claims brought by a University of Wyoming marketing and communications specialist. The court did not examine her allegations of unequal pay and retaliation, ruling instead that she took the wrong procedural path. She filed pro se in December 2024 and later dropped federal claims to rely on state law.
- United States·Policy & Law
Law firm Strauss Borrelli investigates Medline Industries over potential mass layoff under WARN Act
Class action law firm Strauss Borrelli PLLC says it is investigating Medline Industries LP of Northfield, Illinois, over its recent potential mass layoff, under the WARN Act.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK plans to expand statutory bereavement leave, with up to two weeks' unpaid leave from April next year
A People Management article by a lawyer says the UK plans to expand statutory bereavement leave to cover step and half relatives and foster, kinship care and adoptive relationships. From April next year, employees losing a spouse, partner, parent, adult child or sibling would get up to two weeks' unpaid leave. Parents who miscarry before 24 weeks are also covered.
- United States·M&A
Masis Staffing Solutions acquires Elgen Staffing in second deal in four months
Masis Staffing Solutions announced Oct. 23 it acquired Cresskill, New Jersey-based Elgen Staffing to bolster direct-hire services and expand into manufacturing and legal recruiting. Elgen's team and operations will remain in place, and it will expand into temporary staffing. It is Masis's second deal in four months. Terms were not announced.
- United States·Research
Why contingent workforce requirements need a second look, SIA says
An SIA article argues strict education and experience requirements may screen out qualified contingent workers. It cites a 2024 Burning Glass Institute and Harvard Business School report showing most web designer postings ask for a bachelor's degree though many web designers lack one. It advises managers to audit requirements before asking suppliers for more candidates.
- United States·Policy & Law
EEOC rescinds 2012 criminal background check guidance, signaling reduced enforcement
The US EEOC rescinded its 2012 guidance on employers' use of arrest and conviction records in hiring, in an Oct. 28 decision that will affect future disparate impact enforcement. Employers can still face private lawsuits, and Title VII, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and state and local screening laws remain unchanged.
- Global·Policy & Law
US, EU staffing firms may face restrictions under Russia-India labor pact
A labor agreement between Russia and India, sealed last December and approved by Vladimir Putin in October, could open a large pipeline of Indian workers to Russian employers. SIA says US and EU sanctions may bar staffing firms and MSPs from taking part, even with unsanctioned Russian clients. Over 71,000 Indians work in Russia, per Indian and Russian media; the Indian Staffing Federation expects 100,000 by year end.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Hogan Lovells Cadwalader publishes compliance checklist for UK Employment Rights Act 2025
Hogan Lovells Cadwalader published a compliance checklist for the UK Employment Rights Act 2025 on JD Supra. It notes the Prime Minister's announcement about imposing restrictions on non-compete clauses, as the government continues employment law reform.
- United States·Policy & Law
Seventh Circuit weighs whether imprisoned China worker can sue Milwaukee Electric Tool under trafficking law
A Seventh Circuit panel heard oral arguments Wednesday on whether federal trafficking law lets a worker imprisoned in China sue Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. over work he alleges was forced. Judge Joshua Kolar cited comity concerns about reading the TVPRA to give foreign forced-labor victims civil remedies against US companies.
- United States·Research
Ramp Economics Lab: Share of spend on freelance marketplaces fell to 0.14% as AI model spend neared 3%
Citing the Ramp Economics Lab, a Fast Company piece reports that among companies studied, the share of spend on freelance marketplaces fell from 0.66% in Q4 2021 to 0.14% in Q3 2025. Over the same period, the share going to AI model providers rose from zero to nearly 3%.
- United States·Policy & Law
EEOC reaches $2 million settlement with two Colorado medical transport firms in beard religious bias case
Two Colorado-based emergency medical transport companies agreed to pay $2 million after the EEOC accused them of religious and disability bias by forcing employees to shave beards or be fired. The EEOC sued Global Medical Response and American Medical Response and AMR's subsidiaries in September 2022. The suit said the companies declined to provide respirators fitting over beards.
- United States·Policy & Law
Vermont and Maryland voters approve collective bargaining measures; Missouri voters respond to paid sick leave repeal
Voters in Vermont and Maryland approved measures boosting collective bargaining rights. Vermont's constitution will guarantee workers' rights to unionize and bargain collectively and bar legislation such as right-to-work laws; the measure passed with 69.5%. Missouri voters also pushed back on lawmakers who repealed a voter-passed paid sick leave law in 2025.
- United States·Product
Voya expands pooled employer plan offerings, says PEP assets up more than 70% year over year
Voya Financial announced Nov. 4 new capabilities for its Multiple Employer Solutions business, easing administration and widening investment choice. The company says that as of Sept. 30, 2026, PEP employer adoption rose 30%, participation more than 50% and assets more than 70% year over year. MES assets doubled in two years to nearly $200 billion.
- United States·Research
Toptal forecasts US job openings may stabilize in Q4 after years of decline
Toptal reports that US job openings may stabilize in Q4 after a decline. It says tech layoffs are decreasing and job growth is projected to level off, aided by strong GDP growth.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Argentina labor reform fails to meet core goals eight months after passage, labor lawyer says
Eight months after Argentina's labor reform was enacted, labor lawyer Cristina Azócar says it has not achieved its employment and registration goals, and the reform faces criticism.
- Asia-Pacific·Product
EPFO launches WhatsApp service in Lucknow for PF balance checks and passbook downloads
EPFO launched a WhatsApp service in Lucknow on November 1, announced at its 74th Foundation Day event, letting members check PF balances, view the last five transactions and download passbooks. Officials said inactive-account balances up to Rs 1,000 were auto-settled to bank accounts on November 1. The Lucknow office covers around 43,000 establishments and 5.41 lakh members.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Romanian education minister Costreie meets unions for first time on teacher pay and 2027 budget
Romanian Education Minister Sorin Costreie held his first meeting this week with leaders of school and higher-education unions on teacher pay, the 2027 budget and school problems. He said teachers should be paid more but offered no specific figures he could not guarantee. Agenda items included workload, class sizes and hourly pay; he said some measures under Law 141 should be reviewed.
- Europe·News
Spain's FECIR warns labor reform is losing steam, calls for more support for firms and self-employed
FECIR president Carlos Marín warned that Spain's labor reform is showing exhaustion and called for more support for companies and the self-employed. He said October usually has negative seasonality for unemployment.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Employment Hero launches brand campaign in Canada, Australia and NZ as Ontario sets 45-day limit for employers with 25+ staff
Employment Hero is running its "Your Next Hire is Right Here Waiting" campaign in Canada, Australia and New Zealand until mid-December. Ontario employers with 25 or more staff get 45 days under the provincial rule. The company bought Humi in a $100-million deal last year and says more than 350,000 businesses use its platform.
- United States·Policy & Law
Lockheed to pay $30 million to settle Trump administration claims over DEI practices
Lockheed will pay $30 million to settle Trump administration claims over its DEI practices, Reuters reported.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Cleveland-Cliffs says it complied with Stelco commitments, plans to meet Canada's industry minister on layoffs
Cleveland-Cliffs says in a letter to Canada's Industry Minister Mélanie Joly that it has met or exceeded all 34 undertakings tied to its 2024 Stelco acquisition under the Investment Canada Act. CEO Lourenco Goncalves plans to meet Joly on resuming full employment for 175 temporarily laid-off Hamilton Works workers. Joly said Oct. 22 that up to 500 jobs were at risk and that the company had failed to show compliance.
- United States·Policy & Law
U.S. midterms hand Democrats Congress, shifting tariff, benefits and workplace regulation outlook
U.S. networks projected Democrats won both chambers of Congress in the Nov. 3 midterms, per CBC News analysis. The result changes the outlook on tariffs, health benefits and workplace regulation for HR leaders in Canada and the U.S. Prime Minister Mark Carney said U.S. negotiators are "asking less and offering more," though the sides are not quite there. Analysis cited estimates roughly 87,000 Canadian jobs are at risk from 50% U.S. tariffs.
- United States·Policy & Law
Washington employers urged to check background check practices for Fair Chance Act compliance
Law firm Davis Wright Tremaine advises that employers across Washington state should evaluate whether their background check policies and practices comply with the Washington Fair Chance Act.
- United States·Policy & Law
California 'captive audience' meeting ban remains enjoined
Law firm Davis Wright Tremaine says California's statutory ban on 'captive audience' meetings remains enjoined, giving California employers greater confidence in communicating with employees.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Paraguay labor ministry says about 7,000 affected by ueno bank collapse, including 490 direct employees
Paraguay's Labor Ministry (MTESS) estimates about 7,000 people, direct and indirect, are affected by the bank's collapse and has opened extended-hours advisory channels. Minister Mónica Recalde said the 490 direct workers remain active and have not been dismissed. The bank is in liquidation under Law 2334, with severance paid as a privileged credit.
- United States·News
Legends Global plans to lay off 1,605 workers at Oakland Arena and Coliseum as OVG deal advances
Legends Global plans to lay off 1,605 workers at Oakland Arena and Coliseum, effective Dec. 31, 2026, per a California layoff notice. The layoffs are planned, not yet in effect, and the company will keep operating with current staff through year-end. Oak View Group would buy the arena for at least $100 million under a proposed sale; an OAC spokesperson said OVG intends to rehire unionized workers.
- United States·Partnership
Workday to report fiscal 2027 Q3 results on Nov. 24, 2026; Securian Financial and Chime join ecosystem
Workday scheduled the release of its fiscal 2027 third quarter results for November 24, 2026, with a same-day webcast and conference call. Securian Financial and Chime are joining the Workday ecosystem through wellness and direct deposit integrations. Attention is on management commentary about AI-related annual recurring revenue and Flex Credits usage.
- Europe·Earnings
Sweden's Hedera Group Q3 revenue falls 2.4% to SEK 126.6 million, returns to profit
Swedish recruitment services firm Hedera Group reported Q3 revenue of SEK 126.6 million (€11.5 million), down 2.4% year on year, which it attributed to its care staffing segment. EBITDA was SEK 4.6 million versus a loss of SEK 2.5 million, and operating profit was SEK 3.7 million versus a loss of SEK 4.1 million. Acting CEO Bertil Haglund said savings are starting to yield results.
- Europe·Earnings
Sweden's Pion Group Q3 revenue rises 2.0% as operating profit surges to SEK 17.3 million
Swedish staffing firm Pion Group reported Q3 revenue up 2.0% to SEK 360.1 million (€32.8 million) for the quarter ended 30 September 2026. Operating profit rose to SEK 17.3 million from SEK 5.0 million, lifting the margin to 4.8% from 1.4%. CEO Martin Hansson said the company is ready to accelerate growth organically and through acquisitions. Peter Winblad became CFO on 2 November.
- United States·Product
Rebuilt Dayforce Recruiting targets frontline and high-volume hiring
According to commentary by Matt Charney, the rebuilt Dayforce Recruiting is aimed at frontline and high-volume hiring. The post's headline says Dayforce is betting on agentic AI in recruiting.
- United States·Policy & Law
Indiana federal court denies Gray Residential Services summary judgment in White program director's race bias case
A federal court in the Southern District of Indiana denied Gray Residential Services' motion for summary judgment on a White program director's Title VII race discrimination and retaliation claims. The court found a jury could conclude an informal text message was used as pretext to fire her because of her race and complaints. The case (Storm v. Gray Residential Servs.) proceeds to trial.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Electrolux deal keeps Cerreto d'Esi plant producing to protect 149 workers
An agreement on Electrolux's new industrial plan was reached at Italy's industry ministry (Mimit). The Cerreto d'Esi plant will keep production at current levels until a reindustrialisation solution is found for its 149 workers, with the Labour Ministry to identify social safety nets plus retraining.
- United States·Partnership
Intel joins Semiconductor Pathways Fund; coalition targets $20 million to keep 6,700 students on track by 2028
Last Mile Education Fund announced Intel has joined the Semiconductor Pathways Fund, launched in November 2025 with founding partner Applied Materials. Lam Research, KLA Foundation, Cadence and AMD Foundation are also involved. The six-company coalition is working toward a $20 million goal to keep 6,700 students on track to graduate by 2028.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
EPFO enforcement officer arrested in Jaipur for allegedly taking Rs 1 lakh bribe to spare firm FIR and account freeze
Rajasthan's Anti-Corruption Bureau on Wednesday arrested EPFO enforcement officer Sonu Maurya in Jaipur for allegedly accepting Rs 1 lakh from a company representative to avoid action over unpaid provident fund contributions. He allegedly first demanded Rs 2 lakh. The cash was recovered, and a case will be registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
- United States·People
Ogletree Deakins adds former Amazon employment counsel Toby Piering to Seattle office
Ogletree Deakins announced on November 4, 2026 that Tobias "Toby" Piering has joined its Seattle office as a shareholder. He spent eight years at Amazon as senior corporate counsel, serving as lead employment counsel for U.S. operations. He has nearly 15 years of experience advising Fortune 50 employers on workforce issues.
- United States·Policy & Law
DHS proposes ending up to 60-day grace period for H-1B, L-1 and other work visa holders; comments due Nov. 10
DHS has proposed eliminating the up to 60-day grace period for E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, L-1, O-1 and TN workers and their families after a job ends. The proposed rule was published Sept. 11, 2026 (docket USCIS-2026-0364), with comments due Nov. 10, 2026. If finalized as proposed, workers would be out of status the day after employment ends.
- United States·News
About 108 Aquarium of the Pacific workers win union vote, join AFSCME District Council 36
Workers at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach won their union and joined AFSCME District Council 36, representing about 108 workers. The NLRB conducted the election on Monday. Workers plan to prioritize professional development, limits on generative AI and livable wages in first-contract talks.
- Global·Research
Ogletree: Multinational employers should watch for risks when applying U.S. bonus, equity and commission plans abroad
An Ogletree article says multinational employers often wrongly assume U.S.-designed bonus, equity and commission plans work the same abroad. Courts and labor authorities outside the U.S. often look at how pay is actually made, and local statutory entitlements can override plan terms. In China, where actual equity can be restricted, companies often use phantom equity.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
UAE labour law overtime rules: two-hour daily cap, pay at basic hourly rate plus 25%
Per Legit News, UAE labour law caps employer-required overtime at two hours a day and total hours at 144 across any three-week period. Overtime is paid at the basic hourly rate plus 25%; work between 10 pm and 4 am earns a higher rate, and rest-day work carries minimum pay entitlements.
- United States·Research
ERE article examines what the 2026 U.S. midterms mean for talent acquisition
ERE published an article on what the 2026 U.S. midterm elections mean for recruiting and talent acquisition.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Entre Ríos CGT raises objections to changes in provincial labor procedural code
The Entre Ríos branch of the CGT submitted observations on the procedural labor reform. Colominas questioned changes concerning guarantees, expert assessments and medical care.
- United States·Policy & Law
Maryland federal court denies dismissal of tenured Towson professor's due process claim
In Gorman v. Schatzel, a Maryland federal district court denied Towson University officials' motion to dismiss a Section 1983 procedural due process claim. The court found the tenured criminal justice professor plausibly alleged he was fired without pre-termination notice or a chance to respond to the specific charges in his termination letter.
- United States·News
ADP announces finalists for 2027 HCM Distinction Awards; winners to be revealed in March
ADP announced on November 4, 2026 the finalists for its 2027 Human Capital Management (HCM) Distinction Awards, which recognize large employers excelling in HCM and workplace innovation. Winners will be revealed at the 42nd annual ADP Meeting of the Minds Conference in March.
- United States·Policy & Law
California federal court grants Cox Automotive summary judgment on technician's wage statement claim
In Touch v. Cox Auto. Corp. Servs. LLC, a federal court in the Eastern District of California granted the employer summary judgment on a mobile diesel technician's wage statement claim. It found the paystubs correctly identified the actual employer and that failing to register to do business in California does not itself violate the statute.
- United States·Research
Fidelity: savers in same 401(k) five straight years average $304,200 versus $146,400 for all savers
Fidelity data show savers who stayed in the same employer's 401(k) for five straight years averaged $304,200 at end-2025, versus $146,400 across all savers, a $157,800 gap. More than 5.5 million continuous savers saw balances rise 16% from end-2024. The overall figure covers 24.8 million participants across 26,200 corporate plans.
- United States·Research
Preserving mental health coverage amid rising healthcare costs
Employee Benefit News reports that rising healthcare costs are forcing employers to rethink mental health coverage. Price discrepancies could stand in the way of workers seeking care, with workforce retention and disability claims at stake.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Kerala draft labour rules report proposes raising minimum wage family unit from three to five members
Kerala Labour Minister Bindu Krishna handed a draft report on rules for implementing the Labour Codes to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Wednesday. It recommends raising the minimum-wage family unit from three to five members by including parents, widening bonus coverage, free medical exams for hazardous work and safety rules for women on night shifts.
- Europe·Research
UK OBR expects Employment Rights Act to have negative effect on economy in first formal assessment
The UK Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) expects the Employment Rights Act to have a negative effect on the UK economy. It is the first formal assessment of the Act, published alongside the Budget in the October 2026 Economic and Fiscal Outlook.
- United States·News
Oxnard, California Chick-fil-A files WARN notice, plans Dec. 31 closure affecting 87 employees
Worthy Integrated Holdings LLC, operator of a Chick-fil-A in Oxnard, California, filed a WARN notice on Nov. 2 planning to close the restaurant permanently on Dec. 31, 2026, affecting 87 employees. California law requires establishments with more than 75 employees to give at least 60 days' notice.
- United States·Policy & Law
EEOC proposed in July to end EEO-1 and other reports; employers may keep collecting demographic data
The EEOC in July proposed a rule to end EEO reporting, including EEO-1 through EEO-6. EEO-1 covers employers with 100+ employees and certain federal contractors with 50+. The comment period closed in late August and no final rule date is set. Sources told HR Dive employers may keep collecting data, and some states require similar reporting.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Irish public sector unions plan 24-hour strike on 12 November, consider weeks-long rolling action
Irish public sector unions announced the 24-hour national strike will be held on Thursday 12 November, coinciding with the largest event of Ireland's EU Council presidency. Unions call the government's pay offer not credible. Talks continued with an independent body, while unions weigh weeks-long rolling action.
- United States·Research
US construction job openings rise 13.7% in September to 298,000; quits hit highest since 2023
Per Bureau of Labor Statistics data, US construction job openings rose 13.7% in September to 298,000, up 44.7% year on year. ABC chief economist Anirban Basu said 190,000 workers quit, the most since early 2023, while layoffs fell 56,000 year on year. One in four ABC members expects profit margins to contract over six months.
- United States·Research
Class of 2026 grads face inflation and a tough job market, many living at home, Yahoo Finance reports
Yahoo Finance reports that the class of 2026 faces rising inflation and a tough job market for new entrants, with many struggling to find work and worried about AI. A Thrivent survey of parents of 18-to-35-year-olds found half said their child had moved back home at some point. Nearly half of those cited unaffordable housing and over a third cited unemployment or reduced income.
- United States·Policy & Law
Employers in six US jurisdictions must file state health coverage reports beyond IRS ACA filings
Employers in California, DC, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Vermont must file health coverage reports with state tax authorities in addition to federal ACA reporting, due early 2027. Five of the six require employer reporting; Vermont currently does not. Massachusetts requires Form MA 1099-HC.
- Europe·Policy & Law
TLT outlook: UK unfair dismissal qualifying period to fall to six months and compensatory cap to be abolished from 1 January 2027
Law firm TLT's horizon scanner for November 2026 to January 2027 covers unfair dismissal, trade unions, tips and business immigration. From 1 January 2027, the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims will drop to six months, and the compensatory cap will be abolished for dismissals with an EDT on or after that date.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK Fair Work Agency action recovers over £59,000 in unpaid wages for five IT agency workers
The UK's Fair Work Agency recovered over £59,000 in unpaid wages for five IT agency workers owed pay for 19 days' work in May. The agency had withheld pay, citing opt-outs from the Conduct Regulations. The FWA found the opt-outs invalid as the hirer was not shown to be notified, and the withholding breached Regulation 12.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Canada's new Express Entry job offer rules in effect: LMIA removed, offers face 9 IRCC checks for CRS points
On Nov. 3, 2026, IRCC activated amendments to Express Entry's Ministerial Instructions: LMIA is no longer required for job offers, a new high-wage occupation list awards up to 100 CRS points, and officers directly assess each offer. Offers must pass five genuineness factors and four further eligibility and CRS checks; occupations not on the list earn zero job-offer points.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
US midterm outcome unlikely to hit Indian IT as H-1B dependence falls, report says
Deccan Herald reports that industry experts analysed how the US midterm election outcome affects Indian IT firms, visa policies, local hiring and enterprise tech spending on AI. The report says the result is unlikely to hit Indian IT as dependence on H-1B visas falls.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Brazil's TST warns of betting addiction impact at work as sick leaves rise from 67 to 361
Brazil's Superior Labor Court (TST) president Luiz Philippe Vieira de Mello Filho urged protecting workplaces from online betting addiction. Citing Labor Ministry data, temporary incapacity leaves linked to gambling addiction rose from 67 in 2023 to 361 in 2025, more than fivefold. He said labor courts already receive related cases.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Adecco study: nine in 10 Mexican firms know of 40-hour reform, only a quarter have estimated its cost
Adecco's study 'México hacia las 40 horas' finds nine in 10 companies know of Mexico's working-hours reform but only a quarter have estimated its economic impact. An OCC survey says 47% of people know hours will fall but not how the transition works. Weekly hours drop from 48 to 46 on Jan. 1, 2027, reaching 40 by 2030; lacking electronic attendance records can bring fines up to 586,550 pesos.
- Europe·News
ERC's Gabriel Rufián says Spain's labor reform 'was good' despite voting against it in 2022
ERC spokesman Gabriel Rufián said Spain's labor reform 'was good' because more people are working than ever, though the labor market remains very precarious. ERC voted against the law in February 2022, when Rufián called it 'a makeover'. He spoke when asked about the general strike on the 11th.
- United States·Research
iCIMS ranks among top 5 for enterprise recruiting user experience for third straight year in Sapient Insights survey
iCIMS said it ranked among the top five providers for enterprise recruiting user experience for the third consecutive year in Sapient Insights Group's HR Systems Survey and Voice of the Customer research. The survey drew input from 10,000+ HR professionals at more than 6,000 organizations across 70 countries. Sapient defines enterprises as those with 5,000+ employees worldwide.
- United States·Partnership
NBA and ServiceNow extend partnership, with NBA to deploy EmployeeWorks for employee experience
ServiceNow announced an extended partnership with the NBA as its Official Employee Workflow Partner. The NBA will deploy ServiceNow EmployeeWorks to give employees a self-service experience for onboarding and internal workplace service requests.
- United States·Research
Careerminds survey: 92% of HR professionals say staff can be reskilled for AI jobs, yet external hiring outpaces redeployment
A Careerminds white paper, conducted with Censuswide among 1,142 U.S. HR professionals and people managers at organizations with 500+ employees, found 92% of HR professionals and 88% of managers believe staff could be reskilled for AI roles. Yet 51% of HR and 47% of managers report external hiring for AI roles, versus 42% in each group redeploying existing employees.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Democratic gains in US midterms seen as possible boost to India-US trade and H-1B ties
Khaleej Times reports Indian politicians and experts welcomed the US midterm results, saying Democratic gains in Congress could have tangible implications for India-US relations, particularly on trade and immigration. Ties have been strained since Trump returned to the White House over trade, geopolitics and tightened work visas.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Trump's immigration and H-1B policies back in focus after midterms as Indian-American Democrats win seats
India TV News reports Trump's restrictive immigration policies and H-1B crackdown are back in focus after Republicans suffered a major midterm setback. Indian-American Democrats won several House seats, including Ro Khanna in California's 17th District, while Republicans of Indian origin including Vivek Ramaswamy lost.
- United States·Product
AbsenceSoft launches AI-powered chat and leave planner MyAbsence
AbsenceSoft announced MyAbsence powered by AbsenceSoftAI on Nov. 4, 2026, an AI-guided chat and visual leave planner added to its employee self-service portal. AI guides the conversation, while the AbsenceSoft Compliance Engine and HR teams make every determination. Its 2026 reports found 31% of employers cite calculating leave eligibility as a top challenge, and 39% of employees who took leave found the process unclear.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazil's CLT bars starting vacation in two days before Christmas and New Year; Dec 23, 24, 30, 31 affected in 2026
Under Article 134, paragraph 3 of Brazil's CLT, vacation cannot begin in the two days before holidays or weekly paid rest days, lawyers explain. In 2026, Dec 23, 24, 30 and 31 are barred. Constitutional Amendment 141/2026, setting two weekly rest days from Dec 16, may restrict further start dates.
- United States·News
Staffing accounts receivable automation platform Cartwheel rebrands as ReceiveUp
Cartwheel, an accounts receivable automation platform for the staffing industry, announced its rebrand as ReceiveUp. The rebrand does not change the product, team or existing customer agreements. The company serves staffing agencies, payroll funding companies and employers of record, and will exhibit at the SIA Healthcare Staffing Summit, Nov. 9–11.
- United States·Partnership
Fingercheck partners with Meridio to offer health benefits to small businesses with hourly and field workers
Fingercheck, a payroll, time tracking, scheduling and HR platform for hourly and field workforces, announced a partnership with small-business health benefits provider Meridio. Clients can now offer medical, dental and vision plans, with contributions handled inside Fingercheck payroll.
- United States·Policy & Law
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court rules three-year limitations period applies to unpaid overtime suit
On Oct. 21, 2026, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania held that a three-year statute of limitations applies to an unpaid overtime suit against two pharmacies, reversing a trial court that applied six years. The state labor department sued in 2023 for twenty employees over work performed from 2017 to 2019.
- United States·Research
US ADP payrolls rise 86,000 in October, beating expectations, 16th straight monthly gain; job-changer pay growth fastest in 2.5 years
US ADP employment rose by 86,000 in October, above expectations, marking a 16th consecutive monthly increase. Pay growth for job-changers was the fastest in two and a half years.
- Global·Research
Survey: 1 in 5 workers laid off due to AI are asked to return; about half expect significant pay hike
HR Executive reports that 1 in 5 people laid off because of AI have been asked back. About half of those displaced by AI say they would expect a significant pay hike to return, and nearly as many want written job-security guarantees and more transparency about AI's role in their work.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
CIEL HR report: 82.6% of India's C-suite roles go to external hires
CIEL HR's State of Leadership in India 2026 report says about 82.6% (66,000) of India's 80,000 C-suite roles went to external hires, versus 13,900 internal promotions. CEOs make up 47.5% (38,000) of C-suite roles, with just 1.11 other chiefs per CEO. Six metros hold 66.7% of senior leaders and 94% of CXO titles.
- United States·Research
US private payrolls rise in October, ADP says
US private-sector payrolls rose in October, according to ADP data reported by Reuters.
- United States·News
Nonprofit Quarterly: Met museum's union victory reveals issues in nonprofit governance
Nonprofit Quarterly published an article examining what the Met museum's union victory reveals about nonprofit governance.
- United States·Research
US green card backlog reaches 1.56 million pending I-485 applications as of June 30, 2026
As of June 30, 2026, 1,560,290 Form I-485 applications were pending at USCIS, with 242,989 received and 118,366 decided in the quarter. The headline puts the family-based backlog at about 611,000 and employment-based at about 268,000.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Paraguay's labor ministry opens help channels for Ueno Bank workers after central bank resolution
Paraguay's Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security (MTESS) has opened consultation channels for employees of Ueno Bank and group companies, following the central bank's (BCP) bank resolution process. Workers can ask about contracts, salaries, benefits and severance via a WhatsApp line, email, or in person in Asunción and regional offices.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Dominican Labor Ministry reiterates Constitution Day holiday moved from 6 to Monday 9 November
The Dominican Ministry of Labor reiterated that the Constitution Day holiday, commemorated on Friday 6 November, is moved to Monday 9 November, a non-working day nationwide. Work proceeds normally on 6 November, and employees return on Tuesday 10 November, under Law 139-97.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch pay transparency law would require employers to disclose salary range before negotiations; large firms largely ready
Floris Visser of Dutch digital-sector association NLdigital says many large companies are ready for the new Pay Transparency Act, while SMEs have work to do. Derived from EU rules, the law would require employers to disclose salary or pay scale before negotiations and bar asking about previous pay. Employees could request their own pay and average pay for comparable work.
- Global·People
Unilever to organize global markets into six Performance Units, appointments effective Jan. 1, 2027
Unilever announced on Nov. 3 it will split global markets into six Performance Units, each led by a regional president accountable for P&L across all categories. New appointments take effect Jan. 1, 2027, with the model phased in during 2027. Unilever targets €1bn in savings by end-2029.
- United States·Partnership
WiseStamp launches integration with HiBob to auto-sync employee data into email signatures
WiseStamp, an email signature management platform, announced a new integration with HR system HiBob. It targets companies whose source of truth for employee data is HiBob rather than their email directory, automatically and centrally keeping signatures aligned with HR records. WiseStamp already syncs with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 directories.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Deel-YouGov survey: 72% of young Australians rank pay that keeps pace with living costs as top job priority
Research commissioned by Deel and conducted by YouGov finds 72% of Australians aged 18–29 rank pay that keeps up with living costs among their top three job factors, ahead of job security (57%) and learning and development (47%). Flexibility and values alignment each drew 44%. On a single choice, 37% picked pay versus 13% for values-aligned work.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
CCPA report: long public service wait times shift costs to Canadian employers and workers
A Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives report published Nov. 2, 2026 says long public service waits shift costs onto employers, workers and families through lost wages, missed shifts and leave. Author Nathania Ebegbare proposes a six-area Cost of Waiting Analytical Lens. It cites Fraser Institute estimates that about 1.4 million patients lost over $4.2 billion in wages and productivity while waiting.
- United States·Research
NDTV video examines how Democratic gains in US midterms could affect H-1B visas, trade and India-US ties
An NDTV video looks at how Democratic gains in the US midterm results could affect H-1B visas, trade and India-US ties.
- Europe·People
New CIPD chief executive Neil Carberry pledges to make body 'relentlessly useful' to HR profession
In his opening address at the CIPD Annual Conference in Manchester on 4 November, new chief executive Neil Carberry pledged to make the body 'relentlessly useful' and more influential. In his fifth week in the role, he said his first responsibility is to listen to members, colleagues and employers.
- China·Product
Tencent unveils Buddy One office suite and Tencent Netdisk, with WorkBuddy as the workspace
At the 2026 Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Conference, Tencent launched the Buddy One office suite, with WorkBuddy as the workspace integrating Tencent Docs, Tencent Meeting and Tencent Netdisk under a unified account, points pool and data pool. Tencent Netdisk is positioned as an organizational memory space for the agent era. Buddy One targets individual users, while WorkBuddy Enterprise adds platform capabilities and enterprise security.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch Working Conditions Act Article 12 tightened from 1 July 2026, requiring employers to consult staff on specified topics
Since 1 July 2026, Article 12 of the Dutch Working Conditions Act (Arbowet) explicitly lists topics on which employers must consult employees, including risk assessment (RI&E), expert support and cooperation with the occupational health service. Informing staff is not enough; they must be able to make proposals. The Labour Inspectorate can enforce.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
ManpowerGroup Mexico executive estimates 40-hour week would raise payroll costs 22%-35% over 2027-2030
Eduardo Hernández Ángeles, legal director at ManpowerGroup Mexico, Caribbean and Central America, estimates Mexico's phased 40-hour workweek would raise payroll costs by 22%-35% during 2027-2030. He said SMEs would be hit hardest, and 24-hour sectors such as manufacturing and logistics must reorganize. Firms are still awaiting rules for electronic attendance registration.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Democrats win both chambers of Congress; H-1B rules will not change immediately, report says
IndianEagle reports Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the November 3 midterms; new members take office on January 3, 2027. It says H-1B rules will not change immediately, as legislation must pass both chambers and gain presidential approval or override a veto, while the administration can keep implementing measures under existing law, subject to legal challenges.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
What US midterm results mean for Indian H-1B and green card aspirants as Democrats set to control Congress
The Indian Express reports Democrats are set to control both houses of Congress after the midterms; at the time of writing they had won or led 54 Senate seats (51 needed) and 228 House seats (218 needed). It says the results could be significant for Indians seeking H-1B visas or awaiting green cards, as Trump administration immigrant policies have grown more restrictive.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Kerala draft report on Labour Codes implementation proposes higher minimum wages and wider bonus eligibility
Kerala Labour Minister Bindhu Krishna on Wednesday submitted to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan a draft report on implementing the four Labour Codes. The draft recommends higher minimum wages, wider eligibility for bonus and other benefits, and stronger worker protections.
- United States·Policy & Law
San Mateo County, California enacts permitting ordinance for autonomous workplace robots, effective Oct. 29
San Mateo County, California enacted an ordinance creating what officials call a first-of-its-kind permitting system for workplace robots, effective October 29, 2026. It applies to covered businesses in unincorporated areas, including restaurants, cafés and hospitality venues, and addresses worker displacement, safety, privacy and enforcement. Covered establishments must obtain a county permit before operating qualifying robots.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK Employment Rights Act 2025 creates new risks for fixed-term contracts
Littler says discussion of the UK Employment Rights Act 2025 has focused on unfair dismissal reforms, with the impact on fixed-term contracts receiving little attention. From 1 January 2027, employees will gain ordinary unfair dismissal protection after six months rather than two years, and the c.£124,000 cap on compensatory awards will no longer apply.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Democrats win both chambers of Congress; analysis looks at implications for India on tariffs, H-1B and Russian oil
The Daily Jagran reports Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress, which could make it harder for Trump to push his agenda. It says the shift could affect India on trade, tariffs, Russian oil and immigration, but does not mean an immediate policy change, as Trump remains president until January 2029 with considerable foreign policy and trade powers.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
News18 asks whether Trump's H-1B crackdown and immigration policies backfired, as midterm results show
News18 published a report asking whether Trump's H-1B crackdown and immigration policies backfired, and what the midterm results show.
- China·Policy & Law
Beijing Tongzhou court: traffic accident on way home after resignation formalities counts as work injury
Beijing's Tongzhou District People's Court ruled that an employee hit in a no-fault traffic accident on the way home after completing resignation paperwork on Nov. 18, 2025 was entitled to work-injury recognition, as the employment relationship ended at 24:00 that day. The employer's appeal was rejected and the ruling is in effect.
- Europe·News
UniCredit faces union backlash over remote work plan
UniCredit faces backlash from unions over its remote work plan, according to TheBanker.com.
- United States·Policy & Law
Apple bars employees from using confidential information in prediction markets
Apple has formally prohibited employees and contractors from using confidential information from their work to participate in prediction markets, according to its latest filing. The ban covers non-public information about Apple, suppliers, customers and partners, applies even if the activity is not legally insider trading, and covers current and former employees.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's Commission of Experts recommends labor ministry raise minimum wage to €1,281
Spain's Commission of Experts has recommended that the Labor Ministry raise the minimum wage (SMI) to €1,281.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
India holds Shram Samvad labour codes awareness programme for Indore and Dhar region
India's Press Information Bureau reported a Shram Samvad, a regional capacity-building and awareness programme on the labour codes, for the Indore and Dhar region.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Ukraine's Constitutional Court rules mobilization of judges is no basis to stop their judicial pay
Ukraine's Constitutional Court ruled that a judge's call-up for military service during mobilization cannot justify stopping judicial pay. It held Article 119(3) of the Labour Code constitutional, but found the Sixth Administrative Court of Appeal's interpretation applying it to judges' pay in two 2025 cases unconstitutional. Judges' pay is to be governed exclusively by the Law on the Judiciary.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK employers will need to justify dismissals of pregnant employees and new mothers as proportionate from October 2027
Under the Employment Rights Act 2025, dismissals of pregnant employees and new mothers during the new protected period will be tested for proportionality, replacing the 'band of reasonable responses' test, from October 2027, according to law firm Veale Wasbrough Vizards. The government has published its consultation response. Employers must show dismissal is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.
- Global·News
Korn Ferry's Noah Rabinowitz: L&D should stop chasing shiny objects and measure skill gaps
In a SPARK TALENT keynote, Korn Ferry's Noah Rabinowitz said the roughly $400 billion L&D industry is good at selling solutions but poor at defining problems. He argued completion rates, star ratings and satisfaction surveys do not show learning, and that training should be measured by whether a specific skill gap narrows.
- United States·Product
ISPE announces three new certificate programs from ISPE Academy
The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) announced three new professional development certificates through ISPE Academy on Nov. 4, 2026, covering quality essentials, QC lab testing fundamentals and regulatory CMC essentials. Completers will also receive a digital badge. ISPE Academy, launched in 2025, now offers nine certificate programs.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK employers face stronger harassment prevention duties and new trade union rights from 30 October 2026
From 30 October 2026, employers must take 'all reasonable steps' to prevent sexual harassment, with a separate duty covering all types of harassment by third parties such as clients and customers, according to law firm Veale Wasbrough Vizards. Unions can seek workplace access and officials gain new time-off and facilities rights. Tribunals can raise compensation by up to 25% for breaches.
- China·News
Langyuan shares: chairman waives pay, GM and CFO take 50% and 30% cuts; nine-month loss RMB 25.71 million
Langyuan (SZ300175) announced on Nov. 4 that chairman Zhao Zheng waives all pay from Oct. 1, 2026 and returns Jan–Sept pay above 2025 levels; GM Cao Yuchen takes a 50% cut and CFO Wang Tao 30%. Nine-month revenue was RMB 237 million, with a net loss of RMB 25.7066 million.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK home secretary confirms final earned settlement rules, doubling standard route to ILR from five to ten years
On 2 November, UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed the final shape of earned settlement, doubling the standard route to indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years. The government's consultation response drew over 200,000 responses, mostly negative. New Immigration Rules are expected in December, with reforms taking effect in 2027; none is law yet.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Vietnam's Employment Law No. 74/2025/QH15, in force since 1 January 2026, reshapes labour market policy
Vietnam's Employment Law No. 74/2025/QH15, in force since 1 January 2026, shifts focus from job creation to proactively building a modern, flexible and sustainable labour market. The report says the labour market developed positively in the first nine months of 2026.
- Europe·News
Farrer & Co answers questions on probationary periods and unfair dismissal reform under the Employment Rights Act
Law firm Farrer & Co has published a Q&A on probationary periods and unfair dismissal reform under the Employment Rights Act.
- United States·People
Recruitics CTO Austin Anderson appointed to lead new Jobs and Hiring group at Agentic AI Foundation
Recruitics announced that CTO Austin Anderson has been appointed to the Agentic AI Foundation's Applied Industries Committee, where he will lead a new Jobs and Hiring Special Interest Group on AI in HR and recruitment. Recruitics joins AAIF, hosted by the Linux Foundation, as a Silver Member. It earlier launched the Open Job Context Protocol (OJCP).
- Europe·M&A
Indy buys payroll startup Fiche-Paie.net to expand its all-in-one platform
Indy has bought payroll startup Fiche-Paie.net to expand its all-in-one platform.
- China·News
Macao labor bureau, tourism office and MUST hold AHLEI certification course ceremony, 175 places offered
Macao's Labour Affairs Bureau, Tourism Office and Macao University of Tourism held an AHLEI international certification course ceremony on 4 November. Five AHLEI courses were offered, plus two industry-specific classes added at industry request, for 175 places in total. Graduates receive a joint local certificate and an AHLEI-issued international certificate.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Accenture, Google Cloud executives say AI advantage lies in adoption, not access
At the Economic Times Business Verticals Workplace 2035, Accenture LearnVantage's Anurag Bansal and Google Cloud's Vaibhav Kumar Srivastava discussed AI access versus AI advantage. They said AI tools are now widely available, and the gap lies in workforce skills, confidence and the ability to use AI at scale.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Assam cabinet approves rule change to dismiss government employees practising polygamy
Assam's cabinet approved on November 4 an amendment to the Assam Services Discipline and Appeal Rules, 1964, providing for dismissal of government employees found practising polygamy and barring them from future state employment. It also raised the upper age limit for ex-servicemen applying for Grade 3 and 4 posts to 45.
- United States·Research
Betterment at Work report: 90% of employees report money worries in 2025, up from 71% in 2022
Betterment at Work's 2025 Retirement Readiness Report found 90% of employees reported money worries in 2025, versus 71% in 2022. Three-quarters of workers said financial benefits matter more than a year ago, and 57% said they would switch jobs for a better package. The piece is an opinion column by the firm's VP of product.
- China·News
HQTP International Talent Lounge to exhibit at CIIE for fourth time with 10 HR service firms
The HQTP International Talent Lounge, run by the Hongqiao branch of the Shanghai HR Services Industry Park, will exhibit at the ninth CIIE for the fourth time with 10 HR firms. Zhaopin will show an AI mock interview room covering 16 job categories, and Yunsheng Group will present its WorkBP AI agent platform and Chuhaiyi overseas HR service brand.
- China·Policy & Law
Chinese localities roll out pre-retirement services; Gansu allows file pre-review six to 12 months ahead
Gansu's human resources and social security department announced that insured persons nearing statutory retirement age can have personnel files pre-reviewed six to 12 months in advance. A national notice from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security covers enterprise employees and flexible workers, requiring localities to open online and offline pre-review channels for those within one year of their original retirement age.
- Europe·Policy & Law
HR Grapevine: Employment Rights Act 2025 currently dominates the UK HR landscape
An HR Grapevine legal article says the Employment Rights Act 2025 currently dominates the HR landscape, and asks whether organisations are prepared for the human impact of change.
- Europe·Research
Job satisfaction falls to lowest level in a decade, survey suggests
A survey suggests job satisfaction has fallen to its lowest level in a decade, HR Magazine reports.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's Workers' Statute allows up to four days' paid leave when storms prevent getting to work
La Provincia reports that heavy rain in the Canary Islands is disrupting travel. Article 37.3.g of Spain's Workers' Statute, introduced by Royal Decree-law 8/2024, gives up to four days of paid leave, with no obligation to make up the hours, when authority travel restrictions or serious imminent risk, including adverse weather, prevent reaching work.
- United States·Research
KFF survey: about half of employer-plan members with 3+ chronic conditions report care denied or delayed
A KFF survey of over 25,000 adults, fielded in May 2026, found 49% of employer-plan members with three or more chronic conditions reported care denied or delayed by their plan, versus 16% with none. Some 68% skipped or delayed care due to cost, against 35% of insured adults.
- United States·Policy & Law
DOL withdraws three opinion letters behind 80/20 rule for tipped employees
The U.S. Department of Labor issued Field Assistance Bulletin No. 2026-1 withdrawing three opinion letters behind the 80/20 rule for tipped employees. A federal appeals court struck the rule down in August 2024, and DOL dropped the guidance from its handbook in January 2025. The agency is developing a proposed rule on tipped employees, and state rules may be stricter.
- Asia-Pacific·Earnings
UPL shifts roles to global services centres as employee costs fall about 15%
UPL said employee-related costs fell about 15% year on year in Q2 FY27, partly by relocating roles to its Global Business Services centres in Pune and Mauritius, whose combined workforce has nearly tripled in two years. CFO Bikash Prasad also cited favourable FX and operating-model savings, and the company cautioned the full reduction may not be recurring.
- United States·Policy & Law
26 anonymous plaintiffs sue Meta in July, alleging AI and algorithms were used to pick layoff targets
According to Fast Company, 26 anonymous plaintiffs filed a novel lawsuit against Meta in July over this year's layoffs, accusing it of using AI or algorithms to pick employees for cuts. Plaintiffs say internal dashboards tracking AI adoption failed to distinguish protected leave from lack of engagement. The claims are allegations only.
- United States·Research
Gallup poll: 27% of U.S. workers fear technology could make their jobs obsolete, a record high
Gallup's latest poll found 27% of U.S. workers worry technology could soon make their jobs obsolete, the highest share recorded and seven points higher than a year ago. The figure reaches 34% among workers aged 18 to 44. The article urges employers to support continuous learning and to distinguish skills gaps from confidence gaps.
- Europe·News
Sainsbury's and Argos recruit 17,500 seasonal staff as case study looks at hiring at pace
An HR Grapevine case study says Sainsbury's and Argos are recruiting 17,500 seasonal staff for the festive period, and looks at how the retailer hires at pace.
- United States·Policy & Law
Midterm results: Democratic control of Congress seen reshaping US employee benefits policy
Insurance Business reports Democrats took control of both chambers of Congress in the November 3 vote, flipping Senate seats in Iowa, Kansas, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina and Texas. It says this raises prospects for legislation on paid leave, drug pricing and fiduciary oversight, and for restoring ACA subsidies. KFF found marketplace enrollment fell nearly 3 million (12%) from 2025 to 2026.
- China·News
Beijing-Taiwan talent development forum held at Tsinghua University with over 300 attendees
The Beijing-Taiwan Talent Development Forum, part of the 29th Beijing-Taiwan Science and Technology Forum, was held recently at Tsinghua University with over 300 attendees from academia, industry and young entrepreneurs. It was co-hosted by Beijing's talent bureau and Tsinghua's cross-strait institute, and launched a cross-strait innovation and entrepreneurship partnership program.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch pop venue association VNPF explains impact of new pay transparency rules on venues and festivals
Dutch association VNPF has explained the consequences of the new pay transparency rules for pop venues and festivals.
- United States·Policy & Law
Democrats projected to win Congress set to make worker power core of legislative agenda
Democrats projected by AP to hold significant majorities in both chambers are expected to make worker protections central to their agenda. Likely bills cover minimum wage, paid sick leave, collective bargaining, the gender pay gap, misclassification and joint employer duties. The Senate filibuster and President Trump's veto remain major obstacles.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM publishes written reply to parliamentary question on supporting working parents during haze
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to Question No. 3258 for the 3 November 2026 sitting. MP Saktiandi Supaat asked whether existing flexible work arrangements and childcare leave adequately support working parents during haze.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on long-term employment outcomes of retrenched PMETs
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written reply to a parliamentary question on the long-term employment outcomes of retrenched PMETs. MP Gho Sze Kee asked whether the Ministry tracks the longer-term employment outcomes of retrenched workers.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues parliamentary replies on support for mature and shorter-tenure retrenched workers
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published parliamentary replies on support for mature retrenched workers. MP Wan Rizal's question cited the Labour Market Report for the second quarter of 2026 on workers aged 50 to 59. A separate reply covers support for retrenched workers with shorter employment tenures.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on protections for platform delivery workers during haze
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published an oral parliamentary reply on protections for platform delivery workers during haze conditions. MP Charlene Chen asked whether the Ministry will assess the impact of prolonged haze on platform workers' earnings. The question was on the 3 November 2026 sitting.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on injury rates of workers aged 60 and above
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written parliamentary reply on injury rates of workers aged 60 and above. MP Melvin Yong asked about workplace injury rates for workers aged 60 and above compared with other groups. The question was on the 3 November 2026 sitting.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues parliamentary reply on National Wages Council guidelines adoption and transformation support
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a parliamentary reply on National Wages Council guidelines adoption and transformation support. MP Mariam Jaafar's question cited rising unit labour costs in sectors such as food and beverage and transportation. The question was on the 3 November 2026 sitting.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on sector-specific haze protocols for essential frontline workers
At the 3 November 2026 sitting of Singapore's Parliament, MP Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Acting Minister for Manpower about sector-specific haze response protocols for essential frontline workers, following additional guidance for employers on using 1-hour PM2.5 readings. MOM published the oral answer on 4 November.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on Workfare Income Supplement recipients by age and disability
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written parliamentary reply on Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) recipients by age and disability. MP Ang Wei Neng asked how many workers are eligible for WIS as of September. The question was on the 3 November 2026 sitting.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on worksite haze safety compliance
At the 3 November 2026 sitting of Singapore's Parliament, MP Cai Yinzhou asked the Acting Minister for Manpower about the most common shortfalls among worksites inspected for haze safety. MOM published the written answer on 4 November.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives oral parliamentary reply on guidance to service buyers on haze-related adjustments
At the 3 November 2026 sitting of Singapore's Parliament, MP Wan Rizal asked the Acting Minister for Manpower about guidance to service buyers on haze-related adjustments, citing the recent prolonged haze and mandatory heat stress measures taking effect. MOM published the oral answer on 4 November.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on SFLP age eligibility and training allowance
At the 3 November 2026 sitting of Singapore's Parliament, MP Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Acting Minister for Manpower what factors the Government will consider in reviewing the age-40 eligibility for SFLP, and about the training allowance. MOM published the written answer on 4 November.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on redesigned SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit
MP Rachel Ong asked the Acting Minister for Manpower what steps are being taken to ensure employers are aware of the eligibility for the redesigned SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit. MOM published the written answer on 4 November 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on graduate employment outcomes
At the 3 November 2026 sitting of Singapore's Parliament, MP Mariam Jaafar asked the Acting Minister for Manpower about recent employment trends among fresh tertiary graduates from local institutions. MOM published the written answer on 4 November.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on injury rates for public and private construction projects
MP Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Acting Minister for Manpower for workplace fatalities and injuries for each year from 2023 to 2025, in relation to injury rates for public and private construction projects. MOM published the written answer on 4 November 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM gives written parliamentary reply on proportion of migrant workers requiring treatment for serious illnesses
Assoc Prof Terence Ho asked the Acting Minister for Manpower whether the Government can provide data on the proportion of migrant workers requiring treatment for serious illnesses. MOM published the written answer on 4 November 2026.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Singapore MOM issues written parliamentary reply on Institute for Human Resource Professionals certification requirement
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower published a written parliamentary reply on the Institute for Human Resource Professionals certification requirement. MP Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik's question referred to approximately 2,000 organisations with more than 200 employees. The question was on the 3 November 2026 sitting.
- Europe·Research
WorkNest poll: only 16% of UK employers fully confident contracts align with workplace practice
A WorkNest survey of 388 HR decision-makers (309 on contracts) found only 16% of employers feel fully confident their contracts and handbooks align with day-to-day practice; 61% were fairly confident and 22% lacked confidence. Just 49% had reviewed contracts in the past six months, while 18% did not know when they were last reviewed.
- China·Policy & Law
Taiyuan housing fund adds property-fee withdrawals from Sept. 20 and raises loan age limit to 68
Taiyuan's housing provident fund center said that from September 20, 2026, contributors can withdraw funds for property fees, capped at floor area × 5 yuan/sq m/month × 12 and the account balance. Since March 4, the loan maturity age limit rose from 65 to 68. The revised national Housing Provident Fund Regulations, effective September 20, let flexible workers contribute voluntarily.
- Europe·News
Wood Group offshore workers stage fresh two-day strike over pay and fire-and-rehire
Wood Group offshore workers on five Harbour Energy platforms have staged a fresh two-day strike in a dispute over pay and fire-and-rehire practices.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Kerala panel proposes higher minimum wages, wider worker benefits under labour codes
A Kerala government-appointed panel has proposed raising the family unit for minimum wage calculation from three to five, including parents, and extending statutory benefits such as bonuses to more workers under the proposed implementation of the labour codes. The draft report was handed to Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Wednesday. It also recommends free check-ups for workers in hazardous workplaces and legal amendments on lockouts and lay-offs.
- Europe·Policy & Law
UK trade unions' new statutory right of workplace access came into force on 30 October
The new statutory right of access for trade unions came into force on 30 October. Experts discuss what has changed and what it means for policy and practice.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Bangladesh garment owners and workers agree new minimum wage to take effect Dec. 1
Representatives of Bangladesh garment factory owners and workers agreed after the first Eighth Minimum Wage Board meeting that the new minimum wage will take effect Dec. 1, paid with December salaries in January. Both sides agreed to finish wage-setting by December; workers will submit a written proposal at the next meeting.
- Europe·Research
TNO survey: staff or skills shortage is biggest barrier to innovation for Dutch employers
TNO's Employer Survey on Work (WEA) 2026, with over 6,000 employers, finds the share of innovating Dutch employers has stabilised after years of decline. Over half face barriers, with staff or skills shortages cited most. 24% launched new products or services in two years (22% in 2024, 57% in 2010); 35% introduced new processes, level with 2024 and down from 49% in 2010.
- Global·News
Google offers voluntary exit packages to some employees in Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Switzerland
Google is offering voluntary exit packages to some employees in Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Switzerland, Reuters reported. A Google spokesperson said some teams introduced a voluntary exit program with severance in 2025 and that it was expanded to a few countries in June. It is unclear how many employees have taken up the offers.
- United States·Policy & Law
Projected Democratic win does not by itself change $100,000 H-1B fee, which courts have blocked since July 24
Per Multibagg AI, the $100,000 H-1B fee stems from a presidential proclamation, courts have blocked its collection since July 24, 2026, and a Sept. 18 proclamation extends it to Sept. 21, 2027. It covers new petitions for workers outside the US; current visa holders are exempt. DHS proposed a separate $103,265 lottery fee on Aug. 25, and Infosys cut FY27 guidance to 1%-2% on Oct. 23.
- Europe·Partnership
Google agrees to let UK union Prospect access its premises to recruit staff
Google said it reached an agreement letting UK union Prospect access its UK premises, including the King's Cross headquarters, to recruit staff. It covers about 7,000 employees, including YouTube but excluding DeepMind, which is expected to strike a separate deal. The move follows rule changes that took effect on 30 October; Prospect earlier reached a similar deal with Meta covering about 5,000 UK staff.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan unlikely to raise cap for foreign workers despite labor shortages
Japan is unlikely to raise the cap for foreign workers despite labor shortages, The Japan Times reported. Kimi Onoda, the minister in charge of policies on foreign nationals, said demand for a special visa category is expected to eventually decline.
- Europe·Research
German defense firms swamped with applications: Rheinmetall gets 23,000 a month, KNDS 90,000
Rheinmetall says it receives 23,000 applications a month, while KNDS currently has 90,000, according to Personalwirtschaft. Many applications do not match open roles. Hensoldt says two-thirds of its planned annual hires had started by summer; MBDA plans to hire about 2,200 in 2027 after 1,700 this year.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch cabinet proposes clarifying minimum wage: shift allowances and bonuses would not count
The Dutch cabinet proposes, in the Verzamelwet SZW 2027, to introduce the concept of base wage in the minimum wage law. Shift allowances, bonuses and overtime pay could not count towards the statutory minimum hourly wage. The ministry describes it mainly as a clarification, and it is relevant for temp and secondment agencies.
- Europe·News
Fair employee equity participation: what HR and Comp & Ben must clarify
A Personalwirtschaft article says fair employee participation schemes need clear access criteria, understandable communication and fixed rules for parental leave, role changes and exit. Employers should define the goal, who is eligible and under what conditions a financial benefit arises. It adds that participation does not replace adequate pay or a transparent bonus.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Spain's Workers' Statute lets parents request a fixed morning shift until children turn 12
Eldía reports that Article 34.8 of Spain's Workers' Statute lets employed parents request a fixed morning shift until their children turn 12, without reducing hours or pay. Employers may propose alternatives or deny the request if they can show justified reasons.
- China·Policy & Law
Chongqing HR and social security meeting plans to speed launch of three 'AI+' scenarios for jobs, talent, social security
At a Chongqing human resources and social security IT meeting on 4 November, officials called for faster launch of three 'AI+' scenarios covering employment, talent and social insurance. Chongqing will build a national AI-in-HR pilot base. Its wage-arrears platform has handled over 130,000 leads and recovered 1.1 billion yuan for 80,000+ workers. By 2026, smart terminals and agents are to reach 70% penetration.
- Asia-Pacific·People
Cyient DLM appoints Sandip Mishra as SVP and CHRO
Cyient DLM has appointed Sandip Mishra as senior vice president and chief human resources officer, effective October 2026. He has more than 29 years of HR leadership experience and was previously CHRO at Prodapt for eight years, from October 2018 to September 2026.
- Europe·Research
People Management: how employers should handle data subject access requests and complaints
In People Management, Rena Magdani offers employers tips on handling data subject access requests (DSARs). She notes requests can be made verbally or in writing without being labelled as DSARs, and most must be answered within one month, extendable by two months if complex. Employees often submit them during grievances, disciplinary processes or before tribunal claims.
- Global·Research
OECD: 666,000 new seasonal work permits issued in 2024, up 8% year on year
The OECD's International Migration Outlook 2025 reported that OECD countries, excluding Poland, issued 666,000 new seasonal work permits in 2024, up 8% from 2023 and almost three times the 2015 level. A Y-Axis article uses the data to discuss temporary work visas in the US, UK, Italy and New Zealand.
- Europe·Policy & Law
French Conseil d'État: threat to competitiveness can justify economic dismissal even without immediate difficulties
In a decision dated 11 February 2026 (no. 497016), France's Conseil d'État reiterated that an economic dismissal can be authorised to safeguard a company's competitiveness even if the company is not yet directly in difficulty. A deteriorating or contracting sector can suffice, UNSA reported, citing Article L1233-3 of the Labour Code.
- Global·Research
Workhuman report uses 2.6 million recognition messages to reveal signals on performance, burnout and AI adoption
Workhuman released its Recognition Intelligence Report, applying natural language processing to a research dataset of 2.6 million recognition messages. The report examines what recognition data can reveal about performance, burnout, AI adoption and workplace culture.
- China·People
Former Feishu product VP Shi Kaiwen joins StepFun after ending on-device agent startup in September
Shi Kaiwen, former Feishu product VP, joined large-model company StepFun in early November, per Guandian. His on-device agent startup, founded June 25 with a first-round valuation of US$500 million, was terminated in September. Sources say the project was early-stage and funds invested will likely be returned or renegotiated.
- United States·News
Amazon retail division layoffs hit nearly 100 WA workers
Layoffs in Amazon's retail division have affected nearly 100 workers in Washington state, according to The Business Journals.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Uruguay labor office in Artigas says some mining firms use unemployment insurance amid sector difficulties
Dani Silvera, head of the Labor Ministry office in Artigas, Uruguay, said mining sector difficulties are public and some firms have turned to unemployment insurance to avoid immediate dismissals. He said he recalls no similar precedent. Many visitors seek advice on their rights without necessarily filing formal claims.
- Europe·Policy & Law
German labour law case: employee loses job despite medical certificate after leave refused then reporting sick
An employee whose leave request was refused and who then reported sick lost his job despite presenting a medical certificate, Gegen Hartz IV reported.
- Europe·Policy & Law
France's dual annuity reform raises employers' cost of inexcusable fault from 1 November 2026
Since 1 November 2026, employers face higher costs in inexcusable-fault cases in France, JDN reported. Under Article 90 of the 2025 Social Security financing law, the work-accident/occupational-illness annuity is again 'dual', covering a professional part and a functional part. The single risk assessment document remains the first exhibit in such cases.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Wage unrest tests Bangladesh garment industry's low-cost edge
Reuters reports that wage unrest is testing the low-cost edge of Bangladesh's garment industry.
- United States·Policy & Law
Trump administration moves to revoke 200,000 visas, impose $103K H-1B fee
The Trump administration is moving to revoke 200,000 visas and impose a $103,000 H-1B fee, WBFF reported.
- China·Research
BYD headcount tops 1.02 million, with social insurance contributions of 20 billion yuan
BYD's employee count has exceeded 1.02 million, with social insurance contributions of 20 billion, according to a Sina mobile post.
- United States·Policy & Law
US L-1 visa extension surcharge rule takes effect, adding $4,500 for some employers' filings
The US rule on an L-1 visa extension surcharge has taken effect, requiring some employers to pay an extra $4,500 per filing, yeeyi reported.
- Asia-Pacific·People
Mrs Bectors Food Specialities appoints Saurabh Sharma as CHRO
Mrs Bectors Food Specialities, the company behind the Cremica and English Oven brands, has appointed Saurabh Sharma as chief human resources officer, effective November 2026. Sharma has over 23 years of HR experience and previously worked at Zydus Wellness, Bunge and Sun Pharma.
- China·Research
Nowcoder releases 2026 autumn campus recruitment white paper surveying 750 employers and 1,352 students
Nowcoder released its 2026 autumn campus recruitment white paper, based on a survey of 750 employers and 1,352 students. Among employers already recruiting on campus, 49.4% increased headcount versus last year, and 62.7% made dedicated investments in AI talent. 35.2% have formally deployed AI interviewers, and 20.8% plan pilots within 12 months.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Australia's Fair Work Commission issues generative AI guidance note effective 20 October 2026
Citing a 70% rise in overall workload over three years, largely attributed to AI use in unfair dismissal and general protections applications, the FWC published a guidance note on generative AI. Effective 20 October 2026, parties must disclose GenAI use and verify all facts, cases and legislation. Professional representatives must hyperlink cited cases.
- China·Policy & Law
Zhengzhou housing provident fund introduces fully online loan approval and renovation withdrawals of up to RMB 150,000
Zhengzhou's housing provident fund center and two other bureaus have rolled out fully online loan and mortgage registration since Oct. 27, covering four loan types. On Nov. 4 it added renovation withdrawals for owner-occupied homes, calculated at RMB 1,500 per square meter and capped at RMB 150,000, with each spouse limited to one withdrawal.
- Asia-Pacific·News
IDBI Bank employees end two-day strike over proposed Fairfax stake sale; union to decide next step Nov 10
The United Forum of IDBI Officers and Employees ended a two-day nationwide strike against the proposed 60.72% stake sale to Canada's Fairfax Financial Holdings. The union will decide its next move on November 10 and plans to seek UFBU support, including a nationwide strike call. It says the deal may undervalue the bank.
- China·Product
Qwen Office plans to launch 'digital employee' feature next week, giving AI agents organizational identity and permissions
At an event during the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen on Nov 3, Qwen Office VP Shu Junliang said the product plans to launch a 'digital employee' capability letting enterprises set organizational identity, duties, permissions and workflows for AI agents and log their actions. He said it will go live after the Smart Office 2.0 release next week.
- Asia-Pacific·News
David Jones staff face uncertainty as reports say stores could close and chain enter administration
Reports suggest Australian department store chain David Jones could shut many of its 38 stores and enter administration; the retailer has not confirmed how many would close. 7NEWS says it is considering cutting to 12 stores, while the Sydney Morning Herald says up to half could shut. The SDA union says its enterprise agreement covers 4,644 employees and it is in contact with staff.
- China·News
Article examines a 25,000-person company without an HR department
A Fengwen article titled 'What does a 25,000-person company without an HR department look like?' examines such a company.
- United States·Research
Firstpost video examines what US midterm verdict means for India, immigration and H-1B
Firstpost published a video segment on what the US midterm verdict means for India, immigration and H-1B.
- Asia-Pacific·News
ManpowerGroup named one of TIME Asia-Pacific's Best Employers 2027
ManpowerGroup announced on Nov. 4 it was named one of TIME Asia-Pacific's Best Employers 2027. The ranking is based on an independent survey of more than 80,000 full-time and part-time employees across Australia, China, Hong Kong and other markets.