Pressure Builds, but So Do Opportunities: How Global Policy Shifts Are Shaping the Future of Small Businesses

Small businesses around the world are facing mounting cost pressures, but there’s a silver lining: governments and major platforms are starting to act. Whether you're in the U.S., UK, Australia, or beyond, the real game-changer might not be AI or tech.

It’s knowing where the policy winds are blowing and positioning your business ahead of them.

Around the World in 5 Small Business Headlines

United States: A Tax Break Win?

The U.S. House just passed a bill that would make the 20% small business tax deduction permanent and increase it to 23%. What does that mean for you? More take-home from your profits, and a stronger incentive to invest in growth. It’s a signal: policymakers are betting on small business as a pillar of economic strength.

→ Your move: Start reviewing your 2025 business tax strategy now. If this becomes law, it could change your net income projection.

UK: Distress Is Spreading

In the UK, over 45,000 businesses are now in critical financial distress, particularly in consumer-facing industries. Rising taxes and wages are choking margins. The takeaway isn’t fear: it’s foresight.

→ Your move: Whether you're in the UK or elsewhere, consider: How resilient is your pricing strategy? Do you have enough margin to absorb sudden cost increases?

Australia: Hospitality Under Heat

Australian eateries and cafes are sounding the alarm as wage increases and rising input costs tighten the noose. Business owners are preparing to raise menu prices, but worry about driving customers away.

→ Your move: If you’re in hospitality anywhere in the world, monitor your food cost ratios closely. Transparency with customers about pricing may be key.

Mastercard Just Stepped Up

Mastercard launched the Small Business Navigator, a new suite that includes cybersecurity tools and a virtual CFO for financial planning.

→ Your move: Whether you're struggling with planning or data privacy, check out these resources. They’re designed to level the playing field for smaller shops.

Europe: Patent Support Is Back

For EU-based entrepreneurs, the SME Fund has reopened its patent and plant variety vouchers, helping businesses protect innovations affordably.

→ Your move: If you’ve been working on a product or agri-tech innovation, this is the time to file that application.

Final Thought: Don’t Just React. Read the Signals

Today’s biggest business wins won’t come from working harder, but from reading the signs faster. Governments and platforms are pushing support your way.

Now is the time to position your business so you’re not just surviving inflation, but outpacing it with smarter planning, more protection, and timely decisions.