The Chad & Cheese Podcast Shredded: Kombo, Humand, Stepstone Group, Giggle, Oyster, Workday, Employ, & More
Feb 26, 2026
A rapid roundup of big HR and hiring moves across tech and staffing. Fundraises for HR data platforms and AI-driven deskless tools get attention. Expansion news from gig platforms and re-entry hiring services are highlighted. Industry shifts include pay raise risks, corporate leadership changes, and new AI hires and products.
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Stepstone's AI Boosts Applicant Volume
- The Stepstone Group saw applications per vacancy jump 55% month-over-month after AI-driven matching and seasonal trends.
- The company reported a record January and disclosed a sizable Upwork stake amid market weakness.
Giggle Expands Central Europe Gig Work
- Giggle, a Budapest gig-work app, grew to 180,000 users and €5M in 2025 transactions before raising undisclosed funding.
- The platform targets expansion into Romania and Central and Eastern Europe.
Oyster Says Humans Still Needed For Global Hiring
- Oyster highlights that automation alone can't solve global hiring complexity; firms need tech plus human expertise for compliance and experience.
- Oyster is launching People Partner services to provide advisory support worldwide.