Small enterprises in the US are proactively managing rising economic uncertainty and operational costs by embracing technology and expanding into global markets, according to a DHL Express survey. Despite these pressures, SMEs are emphasizing cost control, smarter supply chains and efficiency improvements. Many are leveraging technology, such as AI and logistics platforms, to manage expenses and streamline operations while navigating complex global trade environments.

Consumers are more skeptical of influencer marketing than traditional advertising, according to a report from the National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs. Although 58% of consumers have made purchases based on influencer endorsements, 26% distrust influencer marketing, compared to only 11% who distrust advertising. The report notes that transparency is a significant concern, with 64% of consumers expressing distrust when influencers do not disclose brand relationships.

Burnout among hourly workers is a significant issue, with 66% experiencing it, leading to high turnover and stress. To combat this, HR experts suggest adjusting schedules for more flexibility, investing in employee well-being and fostering open communication.

Cash App, formerly known as Square Cash, is a mobile payment platform designed to streamline digital money transfers for small businesses. Integration with Square's payment processing and ecommerce platforms further enhances workflow automation and payment flexibility. The app uses data encryption to secure communications between devices and its servers, ensuring sensitive data remains protected from unauthorized access.

The integration of buy now, pay later data into FICO credit scores is particularly significant for small business owners because many entrepreneurs rely on BNPL to manage inventory and cash flow. Until now, these activities haven't helped build their personal credit, but with the new scoring models, responsible BNPL use can boost credit scores, improving access to financing and better loan terms.

The House Education and Workforce Committee has advanced two bills aimed at helping small employers with health insurance benefits. The first bill would make it easier for small employers and self-employed individuals to join association health plans, and the second bill would aid small businesses in offering self-insured plans by preempting state regulations on stop-loss insurance.

Opt-out compliance demands routine monitoring to keep up with new regulations as well as changes in technology, write Celine Guillou and Alysa Hutnik of Kelley Drye & Warren. They also advise businesses to take steps like confirming scope, conducting company-specific training and auditing the opt-out process to avoid dark patterns.

Bau, a dachshund puppy, is the newest "employee" at the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York City. Bau, whose full name is Baudelaire, serves as the pet guest experience director, greeting guests, inspecting rooms and ensuring pet amenities are up to par. "She was born into being a hotel dog, she had no choice," says Elizabeth Mullins, the hotel's managing director. "But she seems very happy about it."