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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

All impacted roles must execute emergency preparedness plans before Tuesday, March 11th, 2025, to mitigate severe weather disruptions and potential property damage; secure properties, communicate with staff and clients, and monitor official advisories now. Small Business and Tourism Operators must immediately enhance sanitization protocols and visibly communicate these measures to guests to combat the measles outbreak and maintain operational stability and consumer confidence. Healthcare Providers should verify readiness for measles diagnosis and reporting. Real estate owners should prepare for potential supply chain issues and operational downtime.

Small operators, real estate owners, investors, tourism operators, entrepreneurs, and agriculture businesses should monitor the Hawaii State Legislature's website (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/) for updates on budget bills and appropriations that could reallocate state agency surplus funds, potentially impacting services, grants, or regulatory oversight; prepare to engage through industry associations if changes affecting your operations are proposed. Entrepreneurs and investors should also monitor the evolving AI agent architecture over the next six months, evaluating potential applications and tracking startups demonstrating proficiency in developing more robust, user-friendly tools that abstract complex engineering, as this may signal future growth potential and demand new development strategies.

These actions are critical to navigate imminent severe weather and an ongoing measles outbreak, ensuring supply chain resilience and operational stability. Proactive monitoring of legislative budget actions and advancements in AI technology will be key for strategic planning and maintaining a competitive edge.

Featured

Stunning view of the Honolulu skyline with a vibrant rainbow and modern architecture.In-Depth

Hawaii DOTAX Intensifies Drive for Gig Worker GET Revenue, Tips Taxed

The Hawaii Department of Taxation (DOTAX) is actively pursuing independent contractors, including rideshare drivers, for General Excise Tax (GET) on all income, including tips. This signals a heightened enforcement environment, requiring immediate review of tax reporting practices for anyone earning through platforms or as an independent service provider. - Small Business Operators (especially service-based): May face increased scrutiny on contractor payments and associated GET liabilities. - Remote Workers: Individuals earning income via platforms or as independent contractors must ensure all income, including tips, is reported for GET and income tax. - Entrepreneurs & Startups: Companies utilizing independent contractors should review their payment structures and tax remittance obligations. - **Action**: All gig economy participants and businesses using independent contractors must immediately review their tax reporting for GET and income tax compliance.

An adult woman in uniform checking inventory in a warehouse aisle.

Kauai Coffee Worker Uncertainty Signals Potential Supply Chain Disruptions

Imminent Storm Threatens Hawaii Operations with Flash Flooding, Damaging Winds; Act by Wednesday

A dramatic thunderstorm approaches the beach, creating a striking cloudscape over the ocean waves.

Immediate Preparations Required: Storm Threatens Days of Disruptions to Hawaii Businesses

A street light illuminates under stormy clouds during dusk in Hawaii, USA.

Breaking

See all breaking →
A stunning aerial view of a tropical beach resort with turquoise waters and lush greenery.

Luxury Concert Booking Signals Potential Surge in Lanai Visitor Spending

Yellow dice spelling 'Scam' on fake currency, representing financial deception.

Deceptive Solar Sales Tactics Threaten Small Business and Real Estate Owners with Unfavorable Contracts

Close-up of a brown-handled white suitcase with a TSA lock, emphasizing travel security.

Extended U.S. Airport Security Delays Threaten Hawaii Tourism and Business Travel Continuity

A breathtaking aerial view of Kihei, Hawaii, showcasing the coastline and vibrant community during a serene sunrise.

Maui Business Input Opportunity: Federal Policy Town Halls Begin March 21

Stunning aerial shot of Lahaina, Hawaii coastline during sunset, showcasing vibrant townscape and ocean views.

Maui Wildfire Recovery Funding Advances: Watch for Construction & Real Estate Opportunities

People casting votes in a polling station on election day, emphasizing civic engagement.

Congressional Voting Patterns Signal Potential Policy Shifts Affecting Hawaii Businesses

From above of dollar bills in opened black envelope placed on stack of United states cash money as concept of personal income

State Agency Surplus Funds Reallocation Could Shift Funding Priorities, Impact Business Services

A homeless man sleeping on cardboard under a graffiti-laden bridge.

Keehi Stream Encampment Escalation Threatens Nearby Business Aesthetics and Public Health Compliance

Elegant white limousine parked on the street, showcasing luxury transportation.

Hawaii Rental Car Scrutiny May Signal Future Cost Increases and Operational Changes

Close-up of a digital stock market graph showing falling trends and financial indices in red and green.

Hawaii Tourism Operators: Monitor US Mainland Visitor Trends Amidst Las Vegas Decline

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

Imminent Severe Weather Threatens Supply Chain & Operational Disruptions Statewide

A diverse group of professionals engaged in a collaborative business meeting, discussing ideas.

Hawaii Employers Face Increased Competition for Talent as Job Openings Surge

AI & Technology

See all in AI →
A contemporary screen displaying the ChatGPT plugins interface by OpenAI, highlighting AI technology advancements.

Evolving AI Agent Architecture Demands New Development Strategies for Hawaii Businesses.

The sophistication of AI agents is rapidly advancing beyond raw model capabilities, requiring new "harness engineering" approaches that enable long-running, autonomous tasks. Hawaii entrepreneurs and…

Man standing outdoors in a Claude Monet sunflower T-shirt, posing fashionably amidst blurred background.

Centralized AI Procurement via Claude Marketplace Could Shift SaaS Spend for Hawaii Businesses

Anthropic's new Claude Marketplace allows enterprises to procure integrated AI tools, potentially streamlining adoption and altering how Hawaii businesses purchase and leverage AI-powered software.…

A close-up view of the DeepSeek AI chat interface displayed on a laptop screen in dark mode.

AI Memory Breakthrough Promises Significant Cost Reductions for Hawaii Businesses Using Advanced Tools

A new technique dramatically reduces the memory required by large language models, potentially lowering operational costs and enabling more complex AI applications. This advancement could impact how…

Close-up of a laptop screen displaying an AI chatbot interface with a dark theme.

New AI Memory Agents Could Automate Customer Service and Workflows, But Governance is Key

Google's open-source 'Always On Memory Agent' signals a shift toward more autonomous AI systems that can ingest and retain information without traditional databases, potentially lowering operational…

Tourism & Hospitality

See all in Tourism →
A stunning aerial shot of Wailea-Makena's tropical coastline with lush greenery and vibrant ocean.

Grand Wailea Expansion Signals Increased Competition and Resource Strain for Maui Hospitality Sector

The Grand Wailea's tentative approval for a 151-room expansion, despite over 30 conditions, indicates a future shift in Maui's luxury accommodation landscape. Tourism operators and real estate owners…

A stunning aerial view of a tropical beach resort with turquoise waters and lush greenery.

Luxury Concert Booking Signals Potential Surge in Lanai Visitor Spending

The confirmed performance of a high-profile artist at the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi indicates increased demand, potentially driving higher spending and occupancy rates across the island. Tourism…

Close-up of a digital stock market graph showing falling trends and financial indices in red and green.

Hawaii Tourism Operators: Monitor US Mainland Visitor Trends Amidst Las Vegas Decline

A sustained 7.5% drop in Las Vegas visitor numbers and increased per-visitor spending signals potential shifts in mainland travel patterns that could impact Hawaii's tourism demand. Tourism operators…

Breathtaking sunset view over a tranquil Hawaiian beach with vibrant clouds and glistening water.

Hawaii Tourism Operators & Healthcare Providers: Measles Case Requires Enhanced Vigilance for Potential Travel Advisories and Health Protocol Adjustments

A confirmed measles case in a vaccinated adult visitor to Oahu necessitates a watch-and-prepare stance for tourism operators and healthcare providers. Public health advisories or increased health…

Business & Startups

See all in Business →
Portrait of male and female healthcare professionals in studio setting, wearing white coats.

Hawaii Pacific Health Leadership Changes Signal Evolving Risk Management Focus

Hawaii Pacific Health has promoted Mathew Loughlin to Chief Risk Officer, indicating a potential shift in the organization's strategic approach to risk and operations. This change may influence…

A modern outdoor staircase surrounded by palm trees in a shopping area.

Ala Moana Retail Ecosystem Faces Significant Disruption as Neiman Marcus Exits Hawaii Market

Neiman Marcus's closure of its Ala Moana Center anchor store in March 2026 will reduce critical foot traffic and necessitate strategic shifts for businesses operating within and around the shopping…

Yellow dice spelling 'Scam' on fake currency, representing financial deception.

Deceptive Solar Sales Tactics Threaten Small Business and Real Estate Owners with Unfavorable Contracts

State agencies are issuing warnings about fraudulent solar panel sales tactics targeting Hawaii residents and businesses. Ignoring these warnings risks entering into costly, misleading contracts that…

A diverse group of professionals engaged in a collaborative business meeting, discussing ideas.

Hawaii Employers Face Increased Competition for Talent as Job Openings Surge

A recent community expo highlighted thousands of job openings across Hawaii, signaling a tightening labor market that could increase recruitment costs and wage pressures for businesses. Small…

Real-Estate & Development

See all in Real-Estate →
Stunning aerial shot of Lahaina, Hawaii coastline during sunset, showcasing vibrant townscape and ocean views.

Maui Wildfire Recovery Funding Advances: Watch for Construction & Real Estate Opportunities

Significant federal funds are earmarked for multifamily housing and infrastructure projects on Maui, signaling a multi-year construction boom and shifting local real estate dynamics. Real estate…

Professional woman writing real estate prices on a whiteboard for rental properties.

Oahu Home Prices Approaching $1.3M: Increased Operating Costs and Staffing Strain on Businesses

The median price for Oahu single-family homes has reached a record $1,205,000, continuing a trend that will likely increase housing costs for employees and impact business operating expenses. Real…

Close-up of medicine blister packs and U.S. currency illustrating healthcare costs.

Keaau Health Center's $30M Cost Jump Now Presses Healthcare Budgets and Real Estate Investors

Hilo Benioff Medical Center's planned Keaau outpatient facility now projects a 50% cost increase to $90 million, impacting capital allocation and project timelines. Healthcare providers and real…

A man wearing an apron holds a 'Sorry We're Closed' sign, indicating shop closure.

Ala Moana Retailers Face 10-20% Foot Traffic Decline as Neiman Marcus Closes

The closure of Neiman Marcus and Mariposa restaurant at Ala Moana Shopping Center by the end of May will reduce anchor foot traffic, impacting surrounding businesses and potentially altering the…

Finance & Investment

See all in Finance →
Stunning aerial view of Maui's dramatic coastline under a blue sky with clouds.

Maui Wildfire Settlement Payout Structure Implies Longer Wait for Compensation, Impacts Investor Confidence

The proposed Maui wildfire settlement payout structure, prioritizing insurance company and attorney repayment, indicates victims may face a longer wait for compensation, potentially affecting future…

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 →
From above of dollar bills in opened black envelope placed on stack of United states cash money as concept of personal income

State Agency Surplus Funds Reallocation Could Shift Funding Priorities, Impact Business Services

Hawaii lawmakers are reviewing over 200 state special funds for potential reallocation, which could alter agency budgets and influence future funding opportunities for businesses. Businesses…

Young man wearing a face mask sitting indoors using a tablet, representing modern health precautions.

Measles Outbreak Threatens Consumer Confidence and Operational Stability for Hawaiian Businesses

A confirmed measles case among Honolulu visitors mandates immediate review and reinforcement of public health protocols across all customer-facing businesses. Failure to act swiftly risks…

A diverse group of adults engaged in voting at an indoor polling station.

Persistent Polling Station Delays Threaten Civic Engagement, Impacting Policy Outlook for 2026

Recurring long wait times at Honolulu polling stations, experienced in 2020, 2022, and 2024, are slated to continue in 2026, potentially suppressing voter turnout and influencing legislative…

A domestic goose standing by a wooden fence in a farm at sunset, with warm autumn tones.

Hawaii Agriculture Faces Uncertainty as Farm Bill Lacks Key Support

Federal Farm Bill opposition signals potential continued cost pressures and limited rural investment for Hawaii's producers. Businesses should monitor federal policy shifts and explore diversified…

Infrastructure & Transportation

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

Imminent Severe Weather Threatens Supply Chain & Operational Disruptions Statewide

A powerful low-pressure system approaching Hawaii from the west will bring severe weather by mid-week, posing immediate risks to supply chain integrity, travel, and property. Businesses must enact…

Close-up of a brown-handled white suitcase with a TSA lock, emphasizing travel security.

Extended U.S. Airport Security Delays Threaten Hawaii Tourism and Business Travel Continuity

Rising TSA worker absences and increased spring break travel are causing U.S. airport security wait times to reach up to three hours, potentially disrupting travel schedules and impacting Hawaii's…

Explore the serene beauty of a sailboat gliding on turquoise ocean waters from above.

Hawaii Seaglider Project Faces Delays and Military Focus, Diminishing Near-Term Interisland Transport Competition

The anticipated "island hopper" seaglider, Hawaii's potential competitor to interisland flights, has suffered a testing setback and is now prioritized for military applications, delaying its civilian…

A dramatic view of Hawaiian coastline with storm clouds and rugged rocks.

Statewide Storms Threaten 7-10% Supply Chain Disruptions and $1M+ in Agricultural Losses This Week

A prolonged period of heavy rain and thunderstorms is forecast to impact all islands from Monday through Sunday, raising the risk of significant supply chain delays, operational shutdowns, and…

Sustainability & Resources

See all in Sustainability →
A calculator with vintage keys symbolizes real estate investment and mortgage calculations.In-Depth

Olowalu Farmers Face Water Affordability Crisis: 325% Rate Hike Threatens Viability

A proposed 325% water rate increase by Olowalu Water Company threatens the agricultural viability of the region, potentially forcing crop failures and impacting real estate values. Farmers and…

Aerial shot of three blue canoes on a sandy beach in Honolulu, Hawaii, during the day.

Hawaiʻi Island Farmers: New Program Could Enhance Traditional Crop Viability, Monitor Skill Development

A six-week agricultural program focused on traditional Hawaiian crops launches on Hawaiʻi Island, aiming to boost local farming practices. Agriculture producers should monitor program outcomes for…

A vast field of solar panels harnessing solar energy on a sunny day.

Kauai Businesses Face Potential Long-Term Energy Cost Stability: New Solar Project Approved

The approval of the Kaawanui Solar project on Kauai marks a step towards increased renewable energy capacity, aiming to provide more stable, potentially lower, long-term energy costs for island…

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.…