An SBF survey reveals that 40% of companies plan to expand hiring in the next year, reflecting growing confidence despite economic caution. While 49% of businesses intend to increase salaries, this is a decrease from 58% last year. Rising manpower costs and limited local talent are the top challenges. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain more pessimistic than larger companies. Additionally, companies seek more government support for labour market flexibility and training to cope with workforce challenges. Read more on The Straits Times.