Small Business (SMB) stories - Page 5

Xero is axing its app store billing by June 2026, forcing developers onto new API-based tiers and their own subscription systems.

While most slept through Christmas dawn, SonicSentry analysts foiled a 3am brute-force cyber attack on a French client's firewall.

Digital ordering and payment options are influencing behaviour, with more people using QR codes to avoid awkward money conversations with friends.

Christchurch AI startup Contented raises NZD $4.1m seed round to grow its meeting-minutes platform and push into Australia, UK and US.

Trans-Tasman small firms are upbeat and boosting tech and marketing, yet consumers report patchy service and missing digital basics.

Object First posts 183% bookings surge as demand soars for immutable on-premises backup storage to combat escalating ransomware threats.

Late payments now make up 37% of global pay cycles, with firms waiting 51 days on average to be paid, Sidetrade data reveals.

Xero is boosting its Analytics tool with AI cash flow forecasts, behavioural insights and operational metrics on shareable visual dashboards.

Collage appoints co-founder Ross Durbin as chief executive to spearhead AI-driven digital asset management growth from its Denver base.

Australian hiring managers say AI-shaped CVs and overqualified applicants are making it tougher than ever to spot standout talent.

Deel launches The Pitch, a global contest offering up to USD $15m in SAFE funding to seed start-ups, with APAC entries closing 21 April.

Exactly.com and GP Solutions team up to embed streamlined payments into travel platforms, targeting simpler, cheaper options for smaller firms.

Sage sees four senior leaders named 2026 CRN Channel Chiefs as it leans on partners to drive AI-led growth for SMB finance and HR.

Constant Contact doubles down on AI-driven tools while keeping email the core link between small businesses and their customers.

AI bookkeeping startup Botkeeper shuts after 11 years, citing rapid client consolidation, lost revenue and an unsustainable path forward.

In 2026, business tech shifts from “digital first” to “frictionless flow”, as connected ecosystems quietly power work across every sector.

UKG appoints veteran HR tech executive Paul Broughton as Asia Pacific managing director to spearhead regional growth and customer expansion.

Australian workplaces brace for 2026 as AI, hybrid models and security demands converge to reshape how, where and why people work.

Cowbell and Zurich roll out Prime One cyber cover for Australian SMEs, targeting firms up to AUD $100 million turnover with rapid broker access.

Airwallex launches an AI assistant in its web app, promising to simplify onboarding and day-to-day finance tasks for multi-currency businesses.