Some employers in the US are proactively implementing layoffs as a cost-management strategy in anticipation of economic challenges, according to data from The Conference Board. The report notes that 41% of employers have conducted layoffs over the last six months, reflecting a rise from the previous year.

AI agents are transforming workforce planning, requiring companies to integrate digital labor alongside human employees. Organizations must adapt by orchestrating work between humans and AI, managing digital talent like human talent, and ensuring continuous workforce planning to address dynamic needs. Platforms like KPMG's Mystro aid in understanding and leveraging AI agents for productivity and efficiency.

Thirty-six percent of employers now cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss and diabetes, according to a survey by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. Employers are adopting cost-control measures such as prior authorization, reauthorization for refills and eligibility requirements to manage the rising expenses associated with the drugs.

AI is increasingly being seen as a major threat to jobs, particularly entry-level positions crucial for launching careers. In a recent op-ed commentary, LinkedIn's chief economic opportunity officer, Aneesh Raman, compared the situation to the decline of US manufacturing in the 1980s. "Uncertainty around tariffs and global trade is likely to only accelerate that pressure, just as millions of 2025 graduates enter the work force."

Employers must be cautious of job candidates with litigious histories, but they cannot refuse to hire someone based on their track record of lawsuits related to protected activities. Attorneys advise against investigating an applicant's litigation history with previous employers, as it may lead to illegal discrimination claims. Instead, focus on legal hiring practices and addressing workplace issues promptly.