International recruitment has fallen, according to the latest Antal Global Snapshot.

The snapshot shows current hiring across the globe fell from 57% in September to 50% now. But the number of organisations intending to cut headcount had dropped by 7% to 16%, indicating that the dip in recruitment activity is largely down to companies retaining their staff.

Tony Goodwin, chairman and chief executive of Antal International, says: “Although current recruitment activity is down by 7% from last quarter, this is matched by the percentage of organisations letting staff go, which has also dropped by 7% from 23% last quarter.

“Western Europe has taken a hit, recording the lowest levels of recruitment activity of all regions. However, the Americas region has overtaken the Asia-Pacific region in having the highest demand for professionals and managers, signifying a small rebalance in economic power.

“Although recruitment is down slightly on a global level, the percentage of organisations which are currently recruiting is still relatively high. Staff retention is on the rise and is predicted to remain consistent in the coming quarter.”