5 @ 5 @ 5 – April 27, 2025: Tariffs, Shifting Alliances, and Small Biz Survival

Delivering the world’s most important small business stories before your first coffee.

✍️ George Moen, Founder-Publisher | WBN Global News | April 27, 2025

Tariffs and trade tensions dominate headlines in Canada, the U.S., and globally, leaving small businesses to adapt to rising costs, uncertain demand, and shifting supply chains. Today’s roundup highlights the resilience—and pressure—facing entrepreneurs in a turbulent 2025.

📌 At A Glance

Today’s Top 5 Stories

• Canadian economy projected to contract in Q2 amid tariffs (CFIB, April 26)
• U.S. small businesses challenge new tariffs in court (Inside Trade, April 26)
• “Buy Canadian” trend grows as consumers shun U.S. brands (Economic Times, April 26)
• African Union partners with ICSB to empower SMEs (ICSB, April 26)
• Indie board game publishers sue over tariffs (Business Insider, April 26)

🇨🇦 Canada

1. Canadian Economy Projected to Contract in Q2
   Source: CFIB, April 26
   Why it matters: A looming economic slowdown threatens small businesses with lower sales and tighter margins, forcing owners to rethink hiring and spending.
2. Half of Small Businesses Question U.S. as Reliable Partner
   Source: Yahoo Finance, April 26
   Why it matters: Shifting trade alliances mean more risk for companies dependent on cross-border sales and imports.
3. ‘Buy Canadian’ Movement Hits U.S. Brands
   Source: Economic Times, April 26
   Why it matters: Local consumer support boosts homegrown companies, but raises pressure on those who rely on American suppliers or markets.
4. Unifor Rally Demands Job Protection
   Source: Newswire, April 26
   Why it matters: National focus on job security puts small businesses front and center in policy debates about economic protection.
5. Digital Services Tax Takes Effect
   Source: Toronto Star, April 26
   Why it matters: New taxes on tech platforms could increase costs for small businesses that depend on digital marketing and sales.

🇺🇸 United States

1. Small Businesses Challenge Tariffs in Court
   Source: Inside Trade, April 26
   Why it matters: Legal pushback highlights how tariffs raise costs and disrupt supply chains for thousands of small companies.
2. Indie Game Publishers Sue Over China Tariffs
   Source: Business Insider, April 26
   Why it matters: Niche creators hit hardest, showing how sector-specific tariffs can threaten the survival of small and creative enterprises.
3. Survey: Owners Struggle with Finances and Support
   Source: New York Post, April 26
   Why it matters: Widespread financial missteps and lack of guidance indicate a growing need for accessible resources and training.
4. Tariffs Benefit Some Manufacturers
   Source: North State Journal, April 26
   Why it matters: Not all impacts are negative—certain small manufacturers gain as imported competition becomes pricier.
5. Orlando Named Best U.S. City for Startups
   Source: WFTV, April 26
   Why it matters: Entrepreneurial hotspots drive new business creation, local hiring, and regional innovation.

🌍 International

1. African Union Partners with ICSB for SME Growth
   Source: ICSB, April 26
   Why it matters: New African programs could open up global partnerships and digital tools for small businesses.
2. World Breaths Sigh of Relief as Fed and IMF Spared
   Source: Reuters, April 26
   Why it matters: Stability in the global financial system is crucial for international trade and finance businesses.
3. World IP Day Underscores Value of Innovation
   Source: SBECouncil, April 26
   Why it matters: Protecting patents and copyrights is key for small companies to stay competitive and secure new revenue streams.
4. Franchise Expo Returns to NYC
   Source: FranchiseWire, April 26
   Why it matters: International events give small businesses and startups more options for growth and global reach.
5. Entrepreneurs Skeptical About World Cup Boom
   Source: Community Voice Kansas, April 26
   Why it matters: Not all mega-events are a windfall—small businesses need realistic plans to benefit from global spectacles.

🔎 What We’re Watching

• Trump’s Tariffs Slow U.S. Tourism
  Source: The Guardian, April 26
  Why it matters: Fewer tourists hurt small hospitality, retail, and attractions businesses.
• Disaster Loans Support Local Recovery
  Source: Local News Digital, April 26
  Why it matters: Access to affordable relief loans is critical for slight business recovery after natural disasters.
• Small Business Advocates Rally for Policy Change
  Source: Daily Herald, April 26
  Why it matters: Grassroots advocacy pressures lawmakers for business-friendly regulations and relief.
• Digital Services Tax Alters Costs
  Source: Toronto Star, April 26
  Why it matters: New digital taxes could change pricing and access to digital services for small business owners.
• Orlando Startup Scene Gains Momentum
  Source: WFTV, April 26
  Why it matters: Growing entrepreneurial ecosystems mean new opportunities for founders and service providers.

George Moen – Founder & Publisher, WBN News
📧 gmoen@wbnn.news

tags: #5@5 #Small Business News #Canadian Business #US Economy #International Trade #Global Markets #Business Trends