Energy Bills & Reliability: Iloilo businesses warn that recurring Visayas Grid outages and higher electricity rates are squeezing operations and jobs, as commercial power costs climbed from P13.04/kWh (June) to P13.58/kWh (August). Household Cost Relief: Malaysia’s PM says about 80% of domestic users under 600 kWh/month stay protected from recent electricity bill hikes, while mitigation is being reviewed with energy and finance agencies. Consumer Price Pressure: UK inflation hit 3.1% (Aug), with transport—especially fuel—driving the rise; meanwhile an IGD forecast warns food inflation could nearly double by 2027. Payments & Merchant Fees: India’s UPI MDR rules clarify that customers won’t pay charges for UPI payments, shifting focus to merchant payment costs. Retail & Food Supply: India’s onion wholesale prices fell 9% in 9 days, with retail rates expected to ease after government sales at ₹35/kg. Brand/Business Moves: Starbucks is considering selling a majority stake in its Japan business (valued around $3B). AI in Consumer Finance: Experian finds 54% of consumers are comfortable with AI agents applying for credit, signaling a bigger role for AI in lending journeys. Retail/Customer Experience: BT says 95%+ of landline users switched to Digital Voice as it expands trials ahead of PSTN shutdown. Sourcing & Sustainability: Lidl GB launches a Kenyan living-income tea, adding payments to help close the earnings gap for farmers. Small Business Survival: A guide from Printify highlights starting a home-based candle brand for as little as ~$50 using print-on-demand.