The globalisation of talent is entering its next phase, driven not by cost but by capability and AI.

Before Covid, everyone worked from the office. Hiring was location-based, and companies offshored work to lower-cost markets.

After Covid, hybrid and remote work became the norm. Companies started hiring globally, finding the best talent wherever they were. Employer of Record (EOR) models made this shift possible and accelerated its adoption.

I believe this new normal is here to stay, and AI will only accelerate this shift.

Wages in lower-cost markets are rising as global competition for talent increases. Over time, these markets will not stay low-cost. Location-based hiring will phase out as employers focus on skill, impact, and performance instead of geography.

That said, the future of work will not be fully decentralised. We are moving toward a hybrid global talent model — one where distributed and centralised work coexist.

Strategic functions, leadership roles, and innovation teams will continue to cluster in key hubs such as Singapore, London, and New York. These cities offer strong infrastructure, governance, and access to capital, making them ideal for headquarters and high-value roles.

At the same time, distributed teams across regions will handle specialised, technical, and project-based work, supported by digital platforms and AI tools. This balance between global strategy and local execution will shape the next phase of globalisation.

AI will also replace many forms of low-skill work. Wage polarisation will widen. The best talent will command more, while average performers will struggle to stand out. If your work can be done just as well by someone elsewhere, they may eventually get the job. Over time, wages and opportunities will normalise across borders.

While AI is transforming how work gets done, it cannot replace roles that require a human touch. Soft skills will become increasingly important: emotional intelligence, communication, resilience, critical thinking, persuasion, curiosity, and determination will define success.

This could become the new global norm — one based on merit and talent. The ability to communicate your value and demonstrate your impact will determine the premium you command.

What do you think the future of work will look like in the next decade? Will the best talent still need to live in global hubs, or can great work happen anywhere?