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 PROFESSIONALS.||
Latest briefing
Coastal businesses must immediately secure operations and brief staff on safety protocols by Wednesday to mitigate damage and disruption from Hurricane Fausto's incoming swells.
All Hawaii businesses should monitor the Hawaii State Legislature website for the final text and enactment date of SB2600, as this bill may introduce new compliance costs and operational
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…
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.
In-DepthRecent AI security incidents reveal that autonomous agents, not advanced AI, are exploiting basic security flaws like overly broad credentials, posing an immediate risk to sensitive data and…
In-DepthNew AI storage platforms can reduce the need for expensive GPU memory by caching pre-calculated tokens, potentially cutting operational expenses by over half for Hawaii's tech ventures. Founders…
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…
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…
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…
In-DepthMaui is wrestling with its identity, attempting to balance its vital tourism industry with the pressing need for affordable housing. The proposed changes to vacation rental policies, which could…
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,…
In-DepthHawaii'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,…
In-DepthA 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…
In-DepthHawaii stands out in the U.S.
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…
In-DepthMaui 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…
In-DepthAlexander & 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…
In-DepthAlexander & Baldwin, a 155-year-old Hawaii real estate giant and the state's largest owner of grocery-anchored shopping centers, has agreed to a $2.3 billion deal to go private.
In-DepthIn 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…
In-DepthA 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…
In-DepthA $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…
In-DepthAmerican Savings Bank’s grand opening of its new Lahaina branch marks a pivotal moment in West Maui's recovery, providing essential financial services and signaling economic resilience after the…
In-DepthAllegations 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…
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…
The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) is facing significant challenges in recruiting a new president and CEO, indicating potential delays in strategic tourism initiatives. This prolonged vacancy may…
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…
In-DepthHurricane 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 $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…
In-DepthThe Wahiawa Dam is at immediate risk of failure, necessitating rapid evacuation and a complete shutdown of business operations for entities located within the projected flood path. Businesses must…
In-DepthA critical failure at the Wahiawa Dam has triggered an immediate evacuation order for surrounding areas, forcing all businesses within the zone to halt operations and evacuate to ensure safety.…
In-DepthHawaiʻi 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.…
In-DepthThe 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.…
In-DepthMay'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…
In-DepthThe 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…
