UK job vacancies dropped to 707,000, the lowest in five years, as businesses reduced hiring. Unemployment eased slightly to 4.9%, but employment also fell, particularly in retail and hospitality, reflecting employer caution due to Middle East instability.
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) are now in the top 20 of the QS World University Rankings, a first for the city. CUHK notably jumped from 32nd to 18th, driven by improved employer reputation and research performance, making Hong Kong's higher education system the most improved in Asia for the second year.
Kevin Kotoko and Austin Franklin were selected from thousands to watch all 104 World Cup games for $50,000 each from a custom-built cube in Times Square. They will create social media content and engage with fans during the tournament.
Hong Kong introduces a two-tier vetting system for its labour importation scheme, effective Tuesday. The new regulations aim to protect local jobs by requiring employers to hire more local staff and face stricter penalties for non-compliance.
Telehealth companies hired by employers to manage obesity drug costs are facing criticism for potentially limiting patient access to medications like Zepbound and Wegovy. Patients report being forced to try generic drugs first or facing hurdles that lead to out-of-pocket expenses, while doctors express concern over these companies offering medical advice outside their scope.
Telehealth companies hired by employers to manage obesity drug costs are increasingly criticized for prioritizing cost-cutting over patient care. Patients report being forced to try less effective generic drugs or face denial of access to crucial medications like Zepbound and Wegovy, leading to frustration and weight regain.
A summit on Germany's economic crisis revealed deep rifts between the government, employers, and unions. While all agree on the crisis, their diagnoses and proposed solutions diverge significantly on issues like labor costs, social contributions, and tax policy.
Germany's ruling coalition is seeking broad support from employers and unions for fundamental economic reforms. Discussions in the Chancellery focused on strengthening economic growth, labor market stability, social security, bureaucracy reduction, and tax policy.
German coalition leaders agreed to further talks with employers and unions on reforms to address economic challenges, including the labor market, social security, bureaucracy, and tax policy. IG Metall chief Christiane Brenner expressed optimism after the meeting.
Prediction market operator Kalshi is implementing new compliance measures, including a disclosure rule for high-risk markets and a risk scoring framework, to combat insider trading concerns. These steps aim to identify and prevent manipulation, though some experts question their effectiveness.
Walmart warehouse workers in Mississauga, Ontario, have signed a groundbreaking collective agreement, marking a significant labour victory. The deal includes pay increases, improved working conditions, and a lump sum payout for unfair labour practices, setting a precedent for broader unionization efforts across Canada's supply chain, particularly targeting influential parts of large corporations like distribution centers.
The US added 172,000 jobs in May with an unchanged unemployment rate of 4.3%, indicating a resilient labor market. Despite this, US stocks fell sharply due to a sell-off in AI chip stocks, with the Nasdaq down 4%.
The U.S. labor market added jobs for the third consecutive month in May, with significant gains in hospitality, construction, and healthcare. Despite a steady unemployment rate of 4.3%, wage growth lagged behind inflation, potentially influencing the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.
German employers, represented by BDA chief Steffen Kampeter, are calling for the abolition of early retirement without deductions for those with 45 years of contributions. They argue it's a costly measure unsustainable due to demographic change and a missed opportunity for employment, while the SPD defends the provision for those in physically or mentally demanding jobs.
Hong Kong Observatory forecasts extremely hot weather with temperatures up to 35°C this week, issuing its third 'very hot weather' warning. The city recorded its longest May streak of 'hot nights' with minimums above 28°C.
Google is rolling out a new fake call detection feature for Android devices to combat AI deepfake impersonation scams. The feature, built on RCS, verifies calls by checking for a digital handshake between devices using Phone by Google.
Two letters debate public sector defined-benefit pension schemes. One argues the £1tn liability figure is misleading and that good pensions help attract staff, while the other suggests raising pay to allow workers to fund their own pensions.
UK ministers face criticism from unions and employers over plans to ban zero-hours contracts. The government proposes guaranteeing 8-20 hours weekly, but unions deem it insufficient, while employers warn of job risks and call for flexibility.
UK ministers face criticism from unions and employers over plans to ban zero-hours contracts. The government proposes guaranteeing 8-20 hours weekly, but unions deem it insufficient, while employers warn of job risks and call for flexibility.
French employers are criticizing the executive and parliament for recent reforms, including changes to pension rules. Starting January 2027, individuals under 64 resuming work after claiming retirement benefits will have their pension reduced by the amount earned, potentially leading to full suspension if earnings match or exceed their pension.
German employers' associations have rejected Defense Minister Boris Pistorius's plans for mandatory reserve training for employees, citing economic needs and the success of the voluntary model. The debate highlights the tension between national security requirements and economic stability.
German employers are concerned about mandatory reserve service plans, warning it could strain businesses already facing staff shortages. They emphasize the need for predictability and legal transparency for companies.
AMD CEO Lisa Su urged graduates to prioritize purpose, judgment, and problem-solving over just AI tool operation. She emphasized that human decision-making is crucial for directing AI's application and taking responsibility for outcomes, a sentiment echoed by other tech leaders.
Wes Streeting supports cutting employers' national insurance to boost hiring and calls for oil/gas drilling in the North Sea. Pat McFadden defends current policies, citing NHS improvements. Ed Miliband faces a decision on drilling consents.
