Even when businesses are growing, hiring isn’t always keeping up.

In today’s uncertain global environment, shaped by geopolitical tensions, cost pressures and rapid advances in AI, companies are becoming more cautious about how they expand. Hiring is more targeted, investment is more disciplined, and productivity is taking priority over headcount.

On Industry Insight, Lynlee Foo speaks with Vincent Chin, Global Vice Chair, Public Sector Practice, at Boston Consulting Group, on what he’s seeing across industries in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Vincent shares how companies are navigating uncertainty, why hiring is becoming more selective, where demand for jobs still exists, and how AI and automation are reshaping the way businesses grow.