SMB Optimism Watch (US): The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index jumped 2.4 points in July to 99.8, with hiring plans rising and owners more willing to spend on capital—though uncertainty is still elevated. Retail Payments Pressure (UK): A new Affirm-commissioned survey finds 79% of SMEs say customers expect more than debit at checkout, and 88% say flexible payments like BNPL could drive growth—while 51% worry about compliance costs. Local Retail Support (Newark): Newark Alliance launched a Small Business Support Pilot offering grants up to $50,000 for retail fit-outs, plus recoverable loans/guarantees and purchase support for qualifying small retailers (20 or fewer employees). Tax Help for Entrepreneurs (Curaçao): The Curaçao Tax Authority released a practical 15-page handbook for new business owners covering legal structures, permits, bookkeeping, and tax obligations. Health Care Policy Fight (US): Democratic AGs sued to block a 2027 Affordable Care Act marketplace Payment Notice change, arguing it could push people toward costlier catastrophic plans. Trade Risk for Canadian Exporters: CFIB research says two in five Canadian exporters to the US are affected by proposed 50% tariffs on some CUSMA-compliant goods, with many expecting revenue drops. Post Office Access (NY): West Park’s USPS location closed after 130 years, forcing residents and small businesses to drive about five miles; Sen. Chuck Schumer is urging a reopening. Public Contracting Rules (UK): A UK procurement policy shift narrows social value scoring, raising concerns for charities and social enterprises bidding for government work. Automation for Small Shops (Robotics): Pudu Robotics launched the AI-native PUDU ET1 compact scrubber-dryer aimed at small commercial spaces like convenience stores and drugstores. Afghanistan Women-Led Microbusiness: A Herat soap workshop employs eight people, showing how women-led small businesses are trying to survive amid severe restrictions and education bans.