In the wake of a leaked audio recording featuring Örbán Áron, the brother of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, significant developments have unfolded, prompting national security evaluations and complex business implications.

The recording, which surfaced in late September 2022, involves a conversation between Örbán and Dávid Héjj, a government commissioner working in the Prime Minister's Office.

The content of the recording, while somewhat unclear, indicates Örbán's involvement in visa-related activities, particularly concerning C visas intended for foreign workers from Vietnam.

In response to these revelations, HR Capital Kft., the company linked to Örbán, was removed from the registry of classified lending companies, with the Budapest Government Office citing a national security risk associated with the firm.

The decision was grounded in findings from the National Security Office, which has the authority to review the operations of such companies at any time.

Although the specifics of the risks identified were not detailed, it is suggested that the company was considered a potential facilitator of illegal migration due to concerns over insufficient oversight of the foreign workers brought into Hungary.

Official documents obtained confirm that HR Capital was notified of its deletion from the registry on December 19, 2022, more than two months after the leaked audio became public.

As classified lending companies, these firms typically undergo rigorous national security vetting and can employ third-country nationals under simplified procedures.

The removal of HR Capital suggests a significant shift in regulatory perception following the leaked conversation, which shed light on potential misconduct concerning visa applications.

The leaked audio reveals that Örbán Áron communicated with Héjj regarding difficulties in obtaining these C visas, which aligns with HR Capital's operations that were specifically focused on recruiting Vietnamese workers.

Insight into Örbán’s network further identifies Garay Ben as a critical figure, who secretly recorded the conversation with Héjj.

A third individual involved in the visa dealings is referred to as Macsek, who previously introduced Örbán to Garay.

Following tensions that arose within this group due to an accounting dispute, suspicions were raised about the source of the leaked recording.

Amidst the fallout, HR Capital faced considerable setbacks, raising further questions about its activities and connections.

Additionally, the regulatory landscape for the recruitment of foreign workers has changed, with a government decree issued in December 2022 reducing the list of countries eligible to supply labour for Hungary.

Notably, Vietnam has been removed from this list, which could have substantial repercussions for the potential recruitment of Vietnamese labour, traditionally associated with a high turnover rate and allegations of recruitment malpractices.

Despite the disintegration of relationships between Garay and HR Capital, business ties remain strong within the trio of Garay, Macsek, and Örbán. Garay has suggested that his association with Örbán might provide a safeguard against potential financial disputes with Vietnamese partners, asserting control over a collaborative venture that now aims to refocus efforts on workforce supply in Germany, rather than Hungary.

The newly established structure under Multi Shoot Zrt.

points towards a continuation of business pursuits in markets less impacted by the recent controversies surrounding Örbán, allowing for a controlled re-entry into recruitment sectors previously under scrutiny.

The evolving situation encapsulates a complex interplay between national security, regulatory changes, and business maneuvering in Hungary's volatile political and economic landscape, marked by intertwined familial connections and government oversight.