R&D Tax Overhaul (Australia): The federal budget will lift the “refundable” R&D tax offset for smaller firms to 48% from mid-2028, raise the turnover cap to A$50M, and tighten refundability to companies set up within 10 years. Larger-company rates and qualifying thresholds also shift, including a lower spend-share requirement for the top offset. Organized Retail Theft (Florida): AG James Uthmeier announced charges tied to a multi-county smash-and-grab scheme targeting hardware stores, with prosecutors saying the ring moved stolen high-end tools through more than 30 cases. Capital for SMBs (NYC): NYC is rolling out zero-interest loans up to $60K for low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs via the Hebrew Free Loan Society, aiming to help businesses launch, stay open, or expand. World Cup Boost for Local Shops (Boston): Boston approved six community FIFA watch parties and is backing a bill to extend last call to 3 a.m. in select areas to drive foot traffic to small businesses. Data Center Costs (New Jersey): Gov. Mikie Sherrill launched a four-part plan to make data centers “pay their fair share” by increasing transparency, grid value, and community investment. Open Banking (Kiwibank, NZ): Kiwibank is rolling out open-banking payments and data sharing for business accounts, going live May 28. AI Business Software (Salesforce): Salesforce beat revenue and profit estimates as AI-powered tools see growing adoption, highlighting demand for automation among corporate customers. Local Recognition: Umbrella Awards honored local businesses and nonprofits, including a small-business winner praised for supporting other local shops.