Many companies have been reconsidering their work-from-home policies in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic forced office closures. While reversing these policies may be straightforward in the United States, the process is far more complex internationally. Understanding international employment law can help ensure a smooth and legally compliant return to the office. Here are key insights. Quick Hits In the United States, non-unionized companies can mandate a return to the office due to at-will employment norms, but this may strain...

As innovations continue to accelerate, the technology landscape in 2026 may reach a turning point, marking a shift from research and development (R&D) to adaptation. This year’s outlook highlights a shift towards smarter, autonomous systems that operate within the physical world. Organizations that embrace this shift may thrive, while those that lag behind may risk losing pace with a rapidly accelerating digital economy. 1. Moving Toward AI Integration Virtually every industry has begun adopting AI, moving from experimentation to practical, integrated...

PROPERTY TAX IN THE NEWS – FEBRUARY 2026 IPTI’s usual monthly newsletter - the “President’s Message” - contains, inter alia, some summarised news articles from around the world. This IPTI publication - “Property Tax in the News” - contains some of the more interesting news articles concerning property taxes in North America and Europe which is where many of our members have a particular interest. Links to these and more, similarly summarised, articles - from North America, Europe and around...

Dear Littler: I’m a manager at a mid-sized company, and I overheard in the breakroom that two of our employees who were dating appear to have broken up, and another employee announced he is in the process of getting a divorce. Aside from refraining from wishing them a happy Valentine’s Day this year, are there any employment-related things I should keep in mind? —Not Cupid Dear Not Cupid,  You do not say whether you have a policy requiring employees to disclose workplace...

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2027 H‑1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 4 and run through noon Eastern on March 19, 2026. REGISTRATION PROCESS AND FEE If an employer wants to apply for an H-1B visa for a foreign worker, there are a few steps to follow. First, employers and their attorneys need to create accounts on myUSCIS.gov to participate in this process. Then the employer must register electronically...

Key Takeaways Today’s middle market has 125,000 businesses, each with revenue of $30 million to $10 billion. This cohort represents a critical, upscale and profitable element of the $30 trillion U.S. economy. As the middle market has matured, its operational complexity has increased significantly. The transformation of the American middle market over the past 20 years is nothing short of remarkable. What was once a market of 200,000 businesses, each with revenue of $10 million to $1 billion, has consolidated into...