Times Higher Education analysis shows nearly 29% of assessed UK universities reported operating deficits in 2024-25, with total sector losses rising to £365.7m. Institutions blamed declines in international student numbers and competitive domestic recruitment. At the same time, Unijobs data show US-based academics increased overseas job applications by 21% in 2025, with the UK receiving a 24% rise in submissions. Experts linked the two developments: fiscal stress at British campuses has been driven by enrollment shortfalls while political pressure and funding cuts in the U.S. are driving a flow of talent abroad. Universities face the twin challenge of shoring up finances while integrating incoming faculty amid tighter hiring markets.