IRS R&D Tax Credit Overhaul: Starting with 2026 returns, the IRS now requires project-level reporting via mandatory Form 6765 Section G, forcing many small firms to rebuild how they track research by project before filing. Energy Costs Under Fire: South Africa’s NERSA faces public pushback over Eskom’s proposed 8.83% electricity hike, with ratepayers warning higher bills will worsen the cost-of-living squeeze. Health Insurance Shock: Minnesota insurers filed for steep 2027 ACA marketplace premium increases, with every carrier facing at least 10% and drivers including higher healthcare costs and expiring federal tax credits. SME-Friendly Regulation: Missouri amended rules to ease audit burdens for qualifying small and newly established third-party administrators, cutting regulatory costs while keeping protections for policyholders. Embedded Finance for SMBs: Stripe agreed to buy Parafin to expand embedded credit for platform customers, aiming to help small businesses access capital as traditional lending stays tight. Cyber Deal Activity: Momentum Cyber’s Q3 review says AI is reshaping cybersecurity economics and accelerating M&A and financing, with capital concentrating in AI-native players. AI Training Pilot: Fulton County approved a no-cost, seven-month “AI Ready Georgia” pilot for 500 residents and municipal employees. Tax Preparer Oversight: The Senate passed the TAS Act, including continuing education requirements for noncredentialed tax preparers. Local Housing Push: New York lawmakers urged LIHTC support for Binghamton’s $31M Stadium Lofts to create 65 affordable units.