Visa Payments Push: Visa is urging Ghana’s banks, fintechs and merchants to expand contactless acceptance so consumers can move from “ready” to “regular” digital payments. SMB Tech M&A: Cegid completed its acquisition of Shine, creating a cloud-native, AI-driven financial hub for SMBs and accountants across multiple European markets. Hiring Reality Check: A new survey finds employers distrust resumes (only one-third are highly confident) yet still use them first, with many reporting hires that misrepresented skills—fueling calls for more objective screening. Cost Pressure: Ireland’s Small Firms Association says small firms’ costs are up 44.4% since 2023, led by labor, energy and insurance—squeezing cash reserves. SME Leadership in Korea: South Korea tapped Han Seong-sook, the SMEs and startups minister, as next prime minister to drive AI-led growth that benefits small businesses. Local Business Growth: Zimbabwe’s ZNCC awards spotlight recycling entrepreneurs scaling from small starts, including Morolo Recycling and women-led Shomang Sebenzani. Consumer Shock (Nigeria): Cooking gas shortages and price spikes are pushing Abuja households and small food businesses toward charcoal and firewood. Startup Comms Tool: AML Consulting launched an AI-assisted “Startup Video Press Release Builder” to help early-stage firms create multimedia press kits in multiple languages. World Cup Business Angle: FIFA’s ticket pricing controversy in New York led to a concession of 1,000 $50 tickets via lottery, aimed at keeping working fans in the game.