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Small and micro business: news and insights

Interviews, reflections and commentary on key issues affecting small and micro businesses.
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News and insights

Interviews, reflections and commentary on key issues affecting small and micro businesses.
A hand holding a magnifying glass looking at some papers
Re-consultation on ISA 250: has FRC listened to concerns?
  • Article
  • 09 Apr 2026
Three years after first consulting on revisions to ISA 250, the Financial Reporting Council is re-consulting on a re-worded version of the proposed changes. The original consultation raised many concerns within the profession, have they been addressed effectively?
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Scottish Manifesto: key actions for growth
  • Article
  • 30 Mar 2026
ICAEW Scotland has sent a list of recommendations to Scotland’s parliament in its Scottish Manifesto, outlining the major steps needed to improve conditions for businesses. Its suggestions have relevancy beyond the region.
A hand holding a magnifying glass looking at some papers
FRC sets out next steps for SME audit following study
  • Article
  • 26 Mar 2026
The Financial Reporting Council has issued its final report from its SME Market Study, outlining four steps to address the issues highlighted by the study.
Solar panels on the roof of Michael Smith Switchgear Limited. A Leicester-based SME that manufactures low-voltage switchgear which received a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise for sustainable development.
Four ways this SME manufacturer protected itself from volatility
  • Article
  • 25 Mar 2026
Michael Smith Switchgear Limited insulated itself from energy and supply chain issues through an approach to sustainability that permeates every aspect of its business – meeting industry net zero targets and catching the attention of King Charles.
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Fines for persistent late payers under new rules
  • Article
  • 25 Mar 2026
Following years of campaigning from ICAEW, the UK government has announced new powers for the Small Business Commissioner to investigate, adjudicate on and issue fines for cases of late payments.
Image of Victoria Street and West Bow in Edinburgh, on a sunny day. Shoppers are in the street and bunting hangs between the shops.
Support entrepreneurship through stability in the tax system, says ICAEW
  • Article
  • 02 Mar 2026
Responding to the government’s call for evidence on tax support for entrepreneurs, ICAEW has called for a stable tax framework and targeted technical changes to strengthen key tax incentives and to encourage investment.
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FRC issues amendments to FRS 102 and FRS 105
  • Article
  • 02 Mar 2026
Revisions to FRS 102 have been published that are relevant to preparers that choose to adapt the formats of the financial statements, alongside clarifications to the Periodic Review 2024 amendments relevant to all UK GAAP preparers.
A person holding a mobile phone in one hand, making a payment with a bank card, held in the other hand
Cyber: the dangers of agents and vibe coding
  • Article
  • 26 Feb 2026
While artificial intelligence can be an opportunity and a risk for cyber security, events in February highlighted the threat that AI tools and agents can pose to organisations’ cyber security.
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Latest Business news from Insights
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Read the latest business articles published in ICAEW's Insights hub.
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Ukraine hub
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Visit our Ukraine hub for the latest on sanctions, ethical guidance and reputational risk.
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Brexit – impact on ICAEW members
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