AI & Work: DeepSeek’s $7B raise signals fresh funding momentum in frontier AI, with implications for hiring and job security across the region. Monetary Policy & Jobs: Japan’s Bank of Japan lifted rates to a 31-year high (1.0%) as it battles Middle East-driven inflation, while warning about pass-through to consumer prices—an environment that can tighten hiring. Labour Market Watch (India): India’s unemployment rate rose to 5.5% in May, with weaker labour-force participation and fewer people employed, pointing to a softening jobs picture. Cybersecurity & Talent Risk: Google says a China-nexus threat actor targeted North American medical, academic and military research for over a year, underlining the growing demand for cybersecurity roles. Hiring/HR Services (India): Hightekers Group acquired Remunance to strengthen Rivermate’s EOR, payroll and compliance services in India, a sign GCC-led talent demand is still reshaping HR outsourcing. Workplace Inclusion (Japan): Japan approved a plan to raise awareness of sexual minorities, including training for local government staff and schools. Education & Youth Pressure (India): India blocked Telegram ahead of a NEET retest after a leak scandal, highlighting how exam competition fuels both coaching economies and fraud networks. Energy & Industry: China’s auto exports and EV push keep pressure on global car jobs, while China’s uneven growth (weak consumption, softer investment) adds uncertainty for hiring.