Small-Business Finance: Pakistan’s new SMEConnect portal aims to make loan applications easier to track and improve access to capital; business leaders say its success will depend on banks getting funds to firms faster. In Namibia, persistent power cuts are disrupting trade and weakening business confidence in Helao Nafidi. Debt and Development: Nigeria’s proposed $21.7 billion in new external borrowing is drawing scrutiny over debt sustainability and how previous loans have benefited the public. Pakistan, meanwhile, has taken the G-24 chair and says it will push for stronger representation and financing for developing economies. Rates and Jobs: UK markets expect the Bank of England to raise rates as energy costs threaten to lift inflation, while US debate over Fed policy is increasingly tied to the cost of servicing more than $40 trillion in federal debt. KPMG Australia is reportedly preparing up to 400 job cuts amid weak consulting demand. Growth and Investment: Fitch Solutions expects Ghana to grow nearly 6% in 2026, but sees growth slowing to 4.7% next year as inflation rises and credit tightens. Egypt has signed a $1 billion World Bank financing deal to support reforms, private investment and a greener economy.