Tax Backflip for SMEs: Australia’s government has amended its capital gains tax overhaul after backlash, lifting the small-business CGT exemption threshold to $10m and keeping a 50% CGT discount for “innovative businesses,” plus scrapping a minimum tax on testamentary trusts—aimed at restoring confidence after the budget hit sentiment. SME Cost Pressure: New research shows two-thirds of small firms have raised prices repeatedly, driven mainly by supplier costs and energy bills, with most bracing for more increases. AI Skills for Main Street: Sage teamed with Google and Multiverse to help North East SMEs build practical AI skills, tackling the common barriers of cost, time, and know-how. SME Finance Shift: Funding Circle says it completed its 10th UK public securitisation (SBOLT), supporting lending to tens of thousands of small businesses and signaling continued demand for SME credit. Local Business Spotlight: A Gilbert, Arizona mom’s children’s apparel brand is opening its first permanent storefront after rapid growth. Energy Billing Fallout: Australia’s Northern Territory smart-meter rollout problems left thousands of customers—including small businesses—facing billing delays and power cutoffs. Funding for Micro-Startups: Canva launched a UK & Ireland Small Business Pitch Challenge offering grants, mentoring, and support to early-stage entrepreneurs.