UK Economy Boost: The UK grew 0.4% in July, beating forecasts, with services output up and computer programming tied to an AI-led lift—giving Prime Minister Andy Burnham and finance minister John Healey breathing room ahead of the next budget update. Energy & Trade Risks: Oil prices slid on hopes for a Hormuz meeting between Iran and Gulf states, while businesses watch for how any deal could ease shipping and energy pressure. AI and Small Business Jobs: A new study from Gusto finds small firms adopting AI are hiring more, not cutting staff—especially the tiniest companies. EU Cyber Rules: The Cyber Resilience Act’s rollout adds fast reporting duties for actively exploited vulnerabilities, pushing cybersecurity accountability onto product makers. Malaysia Business Push: Malaysia’s Budget 2027 debate turns toward enterprise AI adoption, cybersecurity, IP and workforce productivity, alongside calls for better investment execution. Corporate Moves: Genuine Parts Company names new leadership for its planned split into GPC (Automotive) and Motion (Industrial). Regional Business Climate: Ukraine’s Economic Security Bureau reform is under scrutiny as complaints suggest little operational change. SME Finance in Russia: Russia launches preferential lending for SMEs hit by attacks on Wildberries facilities, aiming to protect working capital.