RBA’s first rate rise in two years puts squeeze on struggling businesses
The RBA has hiked rates to 3.85%, adding $115 monthly to average mortgages. Industry experts reveal how SMEs are responding to the squeeze

The RBA has hiked rates to 3.85%, adding $115 monthly to average mortgages. Industry experts reveal how SMEs are responding to the squeeze
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 4, 2026
February 4, 2026
This week’s edition of Let’s Talk features our experts discussing strategies for maintaining product quality while maximizing production efficiency under resource constraints.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 4, 2026
February 4, 2026
Marketing expert Aaron Conway explains how nostalgia marketing surged in 2026 as audiences seek comfort amid constant change, digital fatigue, and overwhelming uncertainty.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 3, 2026
February 3, 2026
Brisbane’s Cortisonic uses sound waves instead of electrons for AI computation, backed by $3.2m defence contract as edge computing market approaches $270bn.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 3, 2026
February 3, 2026
COSBOA sets out Federal Budget priorities calling for permanent $150,000 instant asset write-off, lower taxes, and reduced regulatory burden to restore small business confidence.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 3, 2026
February 3, 2026
Female sole traders grew 31% in five years, double the male rate. ASBFEO analysis reveals diversity and challenges facing Australia’s enterprising cohort.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 2, 2026
February 2, 2026
Australia’s gender pay gap is costing $1.26 billion weekly in lost earnings. KPMG’s Dorothy Hisgrove explains workforce segregation and caring responsibilities drive the gap.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 2, 2026
February 2, 2026
How do you sell aroma technology globally from Griffith, NSW? Flavourtech’s Leon Skaliotis explains the pilot plant approach that won European customers.
Yajush Gupta
Author
February 2, 2026
February 2, 2026
AI dominated this week’s funding with $128 million across four deals.
Yajush Gupta
Author
January 30, 2026
January 30, 2026
Jason Morris from Profit Engine warns that appearing in AI summaries doesn’t always translate to commercial success, with just 1% of users clicking through when AI answers their query.
Yajush Gupta
Author
January 30, 2026
January 30, 2026