S&P 500—Dow—NASDAQ—Russell 2000—FTSE 100—DAX—CAC 40—Nikkei—Hang Seng—ASX 200—ALEX—ALK—BOH—CPF—CYAN—FHB—HE—MATX—MLP—NVDA—AAPL—GOOGL—GOOG—MSFT—AMZN—META—AVGO—TSLA—BRK.B—WMT—LLY—JPM—V—XOM—JNJ—MA—MU—COST—BAC—ORCL—ABBV—HD—PG—CVX—NFLX—KO—AMD—GE—CAT—PEP—MRK—ADBE—DIS—UNH—CSCO—INTC—CRM—PM—MCD—ACN—TMO—NEE—BMY—DHR—HON—RTX—UPS—TXN—LIN—QCOM—AMGN—SPGI—INTU—COP—LOW—AMAT—BKNG—AXP—DE—LMT—MDT—CB—ADP—GILD—MDLZ—SYK—BLK—C—ADI—REGN—SBUX—NOW—CI—VRTX—ZTS—MMC—PLD—SO—DUK—CMCSA—APD—BSX—BDX—EOG—ICE—ISRG—SLB—LRCX—PGR—USB—SCHW—ELV—ITW—KLAC—WM—EQIX—ETN—TGT—MO—HCA—APTV—BTC—ETH—XRP—USDT—SOL—BNB—USDC—DOGE—ADA—STETH—S&P 500—Dow—NASDAQ—Russell 2000—FTSE 100—DAX—CAC 40—Nikkei—Hang Seng—ASX 200—ALEX—ALK—BOH—CPF—CYAN—FHB—HE—MATX—MLP—NVDA—AAPL—GOOGL—GOOG—MSFT—AMZN—META—AVGO—TSLA—BRK.B—WMT—LLY—JPM—V—XOM—JNJ—MA—MU—COST—BAC—ORCL—ABBV—HD—PG—CVX—NFLX—KO—AMD—GE—CAT—PEP—MRK—ADBE—DIS—UNH—CSCO—INTC—CRM—PM—MCD—ACN—TMO—NEE—BMY—DHR—HON—RTX—UPS—TXN—LIN—QCOM—AMGN—SPGI—INTU—COP—LOW—AMAT—BKNG—AXP—DE—LMT—MDT—CB—ADP—GILD—MDLZ—SYK—BLK—C—ADI—REGN—SBUX—NOW—CI—VRTX—ZTS—MMC—PLD—SO—DUK—CMCSA—APD—BSX—BDX—EOG—ICE—ISRG—SLB—LRCX—PGR—USB—SCHW—ELV—ITW—KLAC—WM—EQIX—ETN—TGT—MO—HCA—APTV—BTC—ETH—XRP—USDT—SOL—BNB—USDC—DOGE—ADA—STETH—

We translate Hawaii business news into decisions. Every article tells you what changed, who's affected, and what to do about it. Built for Hawaii's |

Latest briefing

Morning Briefing

Top stories from the past 24 hours

Small business operators on Maui should immediately review HR policies and employee handbooks for compliance with federal I-9 requirements and state law limitations on law enforcement cooperation, conducting voluntary employee meetings to reiterate company support and available resources with legal counsel before the end of the month. Additionally, any business that received significant COVID-19-related funding needs to review all documentation and compliance records now to prepare for potential inquiries from state or federal auditors.

Monitor the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority board meeting minutes and official press releases for updates on the CEO search timeline and any announced strategic priorities; if the search process extends beyond another 90 days without clear progress, consider contingency planning for potential delays in state-funded tourism initiatives. Also, watch county and state legislative efforts for new proposals on property vacancy and taxation, and if a new proposal gains traction or is slated for a vote, reassess investment strategies and property management plans.

Featured

Hands in protective gloves holding multiple US dollar bills, symbolizing virus protection and financial transactions.In-Depth

Businesses Involved in COVID-19 Spending Face Potential Scrutiny and Audits

Allegations of bribery connected to Hawaii's substantial COVID-19 relief fund allocation could trigger investigations and policy reviews. Businesses that received or managed these funds should prepare for potential audits and reputational risk. - Healthcare Providers: Risk of audits and compliance reviews for pandemic-related contracts. - Investors: Potential impact on investment portfolios with exposure to entities involved in COVID-19 funding. - Entrepreneurs & Startups: Scrutiny on past funding mechanisms could affect future access. - Small Business Operators: Those who received grants or contracts may face increased compliance checks. - Tourism Operators: Potential for broader review of state aid programs that included the sector. - **Action**: If your business received significant COVID-19-related funding, review all documentation and compliance records now.

Magnifying glass focusing on terms and conditions document on wooden surface.

SB 2600 'One Dollar Solution' May Introduce New Compliance Costs for Hawaii Businesses

Coastal Business Disruption Imminent: Hurricane Fausto Swells to Hit Hawaii This Week

A breathtaking satellite image capturing a swirling hurricane over the Earth's ocean.

HTA Leadership Vacancy Signals Potential Policy Delays for Hawaii Tourism Operators

Portrait of a confident businessman wearing a formal suit against a blue background.

Breaking

See all breaking →
Close-up of a yellow lined paper with metal letters spelling 'tax', surrounded by crumpled paper.

State Legislature Rejects Empty Homes Tax Proposal, Easing Regulatory Uncertainty for Property Owners

Security guard with cowboy hat patrolling inside a building, showcasing law enforcement and security themes.

Maui Businesses Face Heightened Compliance Risk Amidst ICE Activity and New State Policies

Aerial view of Honolulu skyline from a mountaintop under a dramatic stormy sky.

Tropical Storm Fausto Portends Operational Disruptions and Increased Costs for Hawaii Businesses

Black and white image of handcuffs placed over stacks of US dollar bills, symbolizing financial crime.

Increased State Contract Scrutiny Looms Following Bribery Indictment

A breathtaking satellite image capturing a swirling hurricane over the Earth's ocean.
In-Depth

Hurricane Fausto Threatens Immediate Revenue Loss and Property Damage Across Hawaii Businesses

A striking perspective of metal railway tracks through an iron bridge in daylight.

Skyline Rail Project Cost Overruns Threaten Timelines for Businesses Relying on Transit

Side view full length of slim unrecognizable brunette in swimwear sitting in lotus pose and meditating while spending time near peaceful pond in tropical country

Luxury Wellness Expansion at Four Seasons Maui Signals Shifting Visitor Demands

Picturesque view of Ko Olina Beach in Hawaii, framed by palm trees and a tranquil ocean scene.

Ko Olina Hotel Development Signals Potential Shift in West Oahu Tourism Capacity

Man paddleboarding in a tropical lagoon in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering a serene aerial view.

Maui Cultural Initiatives Secure HTA Funding: Partnership Opportunities Emerge

A close-up of a typewriter showcasing 'ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE' on paper.

Hawaii Businesses Can Slash AI Costs: Cheaper Models Now 'Good Enough'

Researchers in lab coats interacting with advanced robotic arm technology.

Hawaii Businesses Using AI Agents Face Critical Governance Gaps: Expect Significant Vendor Shifts and Increased Compliance Costs

Palm trees swaying in strong winds by a stormy ocean seascape.

Hurricane Fausto Threatens 7-14 Day Disruption to Hawaii Business Operations

AI & Technology

See all in AI →
A close-up of a typewriter showcasing 'ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE' on paper.

Hawaii Businesses Can Slash AI Costs: Cheaper Models Now 'Good Enough'

The AI landscape is shifting towards cost-efficiency, with powerful but less expensive models becoming sufficient for many business needs, potentially reducing operational expenses. This development…

Researchers in lab coats interacting with advanced robotic arm technology.

Hawaii Businesses Using AI Agents Face Critical Governance Gaps: Expect Significant Vendor Shifts and Increased Compliance Costs

A majority of enterprises are knowingly deploying AI agents without adequate governance controls, anticipating significant vendor changes and new compliance investments within the next 12 months.

A MacBook Pro displaying Google Search on a wooden table outdoors, next to a smartphone.

Hawaii Businesses Face Sharp Decline in Online Leads as Google Reorients Traffic

Google's historic data-for-traffic deal with the web is dissolving, meaning a significant drop in organic search traffic for many businesses. Businesses heavily reliant on this digital pipeline must…

Person typing on a laptop displaying ChatGPT logo with a green vibrant setting.

ChatGPT Desktop Voice Integration: New AI Interaction Methods for Hawaii Service & Tourism Sectors

OpenAI has integrated voice command capabilities into the ChatGPT desktop application, allowing for more natural, hands-free interaction with AI for task completion and operational control. This…

Tourism & Hospitality

See all in Tourism →
Aerial view of Honolulu skyline from a mountaintop under a dramatic stormy sky.

Tropical Storm Fausto Portends Operational Disruptions and Increased Costs for Hawaii Businesses

Tropical Storm Fausto's projected path near Hawaii brings a heightened risk of high surf, heavy rain, and strong winds, potentially impacting tourism, agriculture, and retail operations. Businesses…

Side view full length of slim unrecognizable brunette in swimwear sitting in lotus pose and meditating while spending time near peaceful pond in tropical country

Luxury Wellness Expansion at Four Seasons Maui Signals Shifting Visitor Demands

Four Seasons Maui's investment in advanced longevity services, including biomarker testing and IV therapy, indicates a growing high-end wellness tourism segment. Tourism operators and healthcare…

Man paddleboarding in a tropical lagoon in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering a serene aerial view.

Maui Cultural Initiatives Secure HTA Funding: Partnership Opportunities Emerge

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) has awarded nearly $900,000 in grants through its Kūkulu Ola program to 30 cultural organizations statewide, with four on Maui Nui receiving support through the…

Close-up of ripe coconuts hanging on a palm tree with blue sky background.

Kaua'i Luxury Resort Redevelopment Signals Increased Competition for Tourism Operators

The resurrection of the Coco Palms Resort, backed by over $430 million in funding and a projected 2028 completion, indicates a significant expansion of luxury accommodation on Kauaʻi. Tourism…

Business & Startups

See all in Business →
Palm trees swaying in strong winds by a stormy ocean seascape.

Hurricane Fausto Threatens 7-14 Day Disruption to Hawaii Business Operations

Hurricane Fausto is projected to near the Hawaiian Islands early to mid next week, increasing the risk of wind and rain impacts. Businesses must prepare for potential supply chain disruptions,…

Charming BBQ corn stand surrounded by palm trees in Honolulu.In-Depth

Hawaii's Minimum Wage to Reach $16 in 2026: Impacts on Businesses and Economy

Hawaii's minimum wage will increase to $16 per hour on January 1, 2026, marking the third phase of a planned increase to $18 by 2028. This escalation, coupled with new penalties for violations,…

Maui Grapples with Soaring Food Insecurity: Crisis Demands Urgent ActionIn-Depth

Maui Grapples with Soaring Food Insecurity: Crisis Demands Urgent Action

A recent study reveals that food insecurity on Maui has reached crisis levels, with 41% of households struggling to access adequate food, a significant increase fueled by the Lahaina fires, SNAP…

A stunning view of Honolulu's harbor with skyscrapers and mountains in the backdrop.In-Depth

Why Hawaii Sticks to Standard Time: Business Implications of No Daylight Saving

Hawaii stands out in the U.S.

Real-Estate & Development

See all in Real-Estate →
Picturesque view of Ko Olina Beach in Hawaii, framed by palm trees and a tranquil ocean scene.

Ko Olina Hotel Development Signals Potential Shift in West Oahu Tourism Capacity

Shoreline certification filing for a $500 million hotel project in Ko Olina indicates future expansion of tourism infrastructure, potentially impacting real estate values, competition for tourism…

Aerial shot of beachfront houses surrounded by lush greenery in Kihei, Hawaii.

Maui Property Owners Can Now Build Two ADUs: Assess Infrastructure & Water Constraints Now

Maui County's updated ordinance, effective since July 2026, permits up to two Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on many residential lots, aligning with state law. Real estate owners and investors…

Stunning tropical scene with palm trees silhouetted against a colorful twilight sky, evoking vacation vibes.In-Depth

Maui's Vacation Rental Shakeup: Thousands of Units Face Phase-Out

Maui is poised to significantly reduce its vacation rental inventory, with a vote today expected to phase out thousands of units. This decision will likely reshape the landscape for both visitors and…

A sunlit view of railings overlooking the beachfront in Waimea, Hawaii, capturing urban coastal life.In-Depth

Alexander & Baldwin to Go Private in $2.3 Billion Deal, Reshaping Hawaii's Real Estate Landscape

Alexander & Baldwin (A&B), a long-standing cornerstone of Hawaii's commercial real estate sector and the largest owner of grocery-anchored shopping centers in the state, is set to be taken private in…

Finance & Investment

See all in Finance →
Stunning aerial view of Honolulu's skyline with lush mountains in the background.

First Hawaiian Bank's Strong Q2 Results Signal Stable Credit Markets for Investors and Businesses

First Hawaiian, Inc. (FHB) reported robust financial results for Q2 2026, indicating a healthy banking sector and a stable economic outlook. This stability supports ongoing investment and credit…

Exhilarating tandem skydiving experience in Baldwin, Wisconsin, captured in mid-air.In-Depth

Alexander & Baldwin to be Taken Private in $2.3 Billion Transaction: What This Means for Hawai'i's Business Landscape

In a landmark deal, Alexander & Baldwin, a cornerstone of Hawai'i's commercial real estate sector, is set to be acquired by a joint venture, marking a significant shift in the state's business…

Business professionals in suits having a focused meeting indoors.In-Depth

Hawaii's Top Stockbrokers & Financial Planners

A recent ranking of Hawaii's leading stockbrokers and financial planners highlights key players in the state's financial sector, with Morgan Stanley and Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. at the…

Bright aerial photograph of Waikiki Beach with surfers and city skyline under clear blue sky.In-Depth

$10M Investment Fuels Zero-Down Mortgages for Native Hawaiians on Hawaiian Home Lands

A $10 million investment by Northern Trust and Hawaiʻi Community Lending will enable zero-down mortgages for Native Hawaiians on Hawaiian Home Lands, providing an opportunity for financial stability…

Policy & Regulation

See all in Policy →
Security guard with cowboy hat patrolling inside a building, showcasing law enforcement and security themes.

Maui Businesses Face Heightened Compliance Risk Amidst ICE Activity and New State Policies

Increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations on Maui, coupled with new state legislation limiting law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, create a…

A doctor conducting an online consultation with a patient via laptop in a modern office setting.

Hawaii Healthcare Providers Face Shifting Patient Access as Queen's Expands Remote Monitoring

Queen's Health Systems' statewide expansion of its remote patient monitoring program, Ho‘opili Ola, alters healthcare delivery pathways for patients and necessitates strategic adjustments for…

Close-up of a yellow lined paper with metal letters spelling 'tax', surrounded by crumpled paper.

State Legislature Rejects Empty Homes Tax Proposal, Easing Regulatory Uncertainty for Property Owners

The recent rejection of a statewide empty homes tax ballot initiative means property owners and real estate investors in Hawaii will not face new regulatory burdens or potential revenue impacts from…

Black and white image of handcuffs placed over stacks of US dollar bills, symbolizing financial crime.

Increased State Contract Scrutiny Looms Following Bribery Indictment

Indictments against Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others in a bribery conspiracy signal a potential ramp-up in oversight for state contracts and fiscal practices. Businesses engaged with or seeking…

Infrastructure & Transportation

See all in Infrastructure →
A breathtaking satellite image capturing a swirling hurricane over the Earth's ocean.In-Depth

Hurricane Fausto Threatens Immediate Revenue Loss and Property Damage Across Hawaii Businesses

Hurricane Fausto's approach necessitates urgent business continuity actions to prevent significant property damage and revenue interruption within the next 72 hours. Assess vulnerability, secure…

A striking perspective of metal railway tracks through an iron bridge in daylight.

Skyline Rail Project Cost Overruns Threaten Timelines for Businesses Relying on Transit

A $53 million change order for Honolulu's Skyline rail project, approved by HART, signals further potential delays and increased costs, impacting businesses tied to transit infrastructure and city…

Image of secure outdoor community mailboxes with individual lockers in a row.

Puna Small Businesses Face Operational Delays Due to Severe Mailbox Shortage

A critical shortage of post office boxes in Puna, Hawaii's fastest-growing region, is causing significant operational disruptions for local businesses. The inability to reliably receive mail and…

People walking near a Chevron gas station with prominent signage and parked vehicles on a sunny day.

Hawaii Businesses Face 5-10% Increase in Transportation Costs as Gas Prices Surge

Global oil market volatility and geopolitical tensions are driving Hawaii's gasoline prices upward, with current trends projecting a 5-10% increase in operating costs for transport-reliant businesses…

Sustainability & Resources

See all in Sustainability →
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii with this captivating image of a sea turtle gracefully swimming among coral reefs.In-Depth

Hawaii's Coral Reef Insurance Renewed, Bolstering Sustainability and Tourism

Hawaiʻi has renewed its pioneering coral reef insurance policy, offering up to $2 million for rapid repairs after storm damage, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship and tourism.…

Detailed view of a rhinoceros beetle climbing a green plant stem in natural surroundings.In-Depth

Coconut Beetle Threat to Big Island Agriculture Triggers Immediate Business Response Needs

The detection of the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) at Hilo International Airport on July 6 necessitates urgent action to protect Big Island agricultural operations and related businesses.…

Colorful ripe and unripe coffee cherries on a branch, showcasing the vibrant beauty of coffee plants.In-Depth

Kona Coffee Supply Chain at Risk: Water Shortages Threaten Harvests and Revenues

May's earthquake has destroyed water storage tanks for Kona coffee farms, creating an immediate crisis for the high-value crop. This disruption could lead to reduced yields and increased premium…

A beautiful aerial view of lush green terraced farmland fields in a tropical setting.In-Depth

Flood-Affected Farmers Can Access Free Soil Testing to Expedite Recovery

The University of Hawaiʻi's Soil and Plant Diagnostic Service Center has reopened, offering free soil and plant testing specifically for farmers impacted by recent flooding. This immediate support…