SME Finance Boost (UK): Rachel Reeves is set to expand the Growth Guarantee Scheme, lifting government-backed SME lending by £2bn a year to 2028/29, extending loan terms from six to ten years, and raising eligible turnover limits—aimed at helping thousands of small firms borrow to grow. Payments for Small Firms (EU): PayPal has joined the European Payments Council, pushing for more interoperable payment infrastructure and smoother acceptance across Europe—good news for SMEs juggling multiple customer payment methods. Local Business Shock (UK): An electrical fire forced the Grainger Market in Newcastle to close after a £9m renovation, with traders warning of lost trade and spoiled perishable stock. Hospitality Cost Pressure (UK): Shrewsbury’s BID is backing calls to cut hospitality VAT from 20% to 10% and also review business rates and VAT thresholds, citing closures and rising operating costs. Data Centre Energy Debate (Ireland): Ireland’s data shows data centres’ metered electricity use surged to 23% of total in 2025, up from 5% in 2015—fuel for the argument that rural and farm communities will feel the squeeze. Portugal SME Growth Gap: A new analysis argues Portugal has plenty of entrepreneurship, but too many firms get stuck before scaling into “gazelles,” blaming bureaucracy and funding barriers. Brand/Copycat Risk (Global, SME-relevant): A children’s clothing brand apologized after using an AI-modified photo without permission, highlighting how quickly IP and image disputes can hit small brands.