SMB Marketing Watch: Borrell Associates says most small and medium-sized businesses plan to keep ad spending steady in the second half of 2026, with 77% expecting to maintain or increase budgets even as the business climate feels worse. Cyber Insurance for AI Threats: BOXX Insurance (Zurich) is rolling out clearer coverage for AI, deepfakes, and social engineering failures under its Cyberboxx Business policy—aimed at helping small firms stay protected as scams evolve. Small Business Lending Push: The U.S. SBA is expanding lending limits, prioritizing rural outreach and manufacturing, and highlighting new tools to help entrepreneurs access capital. AI for SMBs: OpenAI launched a dedicated ChatGPT program for small businesses, pairing training with practical guides and workflow support. Local Business Resilience: Chicago’s neighborhood bakeries are thriving despite consolidation and inflation, leaning on craft, culture, and community ties. Credit-Building Without Personal Guarantees: BCC Supplies now offers EIN-only commercial installment reporting to major bureaus, designed to help founders build business credit without SSN or personal guarantees. UK Tax Reminder for Side Hustles: HMRC warns UK side-hustlers earning over £1,000 (including wedding and content work) to declare income via Self Assessment. Tech + Telecom Reorg: TELUS is consolidating telecom leadership and portfolios to drive efficiencies and service improvements starting Sept. 1. Business Continuity Risk: South Korea’s Homeplus court rehabilitation resumes after securing DIP financing, but the path back to normal operations remains uncertain.