Author: Navin Bhatia

According to the latest World Bank (WB) forecast, the global economy is projected to grow by 2.9% in 2016. This is lower than the earlier forecast of 3.3% made in June 2015. WB has observed that simultaneous slowing of four of the largest emerging markets – Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa – poses the risk of spillover effects for the rest of the world economy.

The price of oil has fallen to its lowest level in 11 years and jobs in the oil sector are threatened. The price of benchmark Brent crude hit a low of $36.05 a barrel on December 28, the lowest since 2004 while US light crude dipped below $34 a barrel to its lowest level in six years. With analysts predicting that 2016 would see further declines, there is worry spreading across the oil sector jobs.

In a significant consolidation in the organised private pre-school education sector, pre-school chain Tree House, will merge with Zee Learn, subject to approval from shareholders and regulatory approval.

Hiring in India is likely to grow only 7% in 2016. Among sectors, IT, telecom and manufacturing would be the biggest employment generators.

Sweden is moving towards a six-hour working day in a bid to increase productivity and make people happier. According to news reports, more and more employers across the country are making the change. It is hoped that as people intensify but shorten their work day, they will be able to better enjoy their private lives.

What’s in a name? Obviously much, in as far as job designations are concerned. The Government of India has changed the designations of its junior staffers.