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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 |

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Top stories from the past 24 hours

Tourism operators must immediately review operating permits and confirm all commercial activities align with authorized zones to avoid fines starting at $10,000 and potential permit suspension; complete this audit within 30 days. Businesses that handle sensitive personal data should schedule an external cybersecurity assessment within the next 60 days to mitigate risks following the UH cyberattack and increase the threat of identity theft; review and update employee training at least quarterly. Monitor traffic volume and air quality reports for Ala Wai Boulevard, and watch for official project timelines regarding the Ala Wai bridge proposal; if sustained traffic increases exceed 15% or air quality alerts become frequent, reassess delivery routes and customer access strategies. Real estate investors and entrepreneurs should watch the Honolulu City Council's committee meeting schedule for the affordable housing initiative, as its advancement could lead to expedited development timelines.

Featured

Hands holding a small wooden house model, symbolizing new home ownership and real estate transactions.

Honolulu Affordable Housing Initiative Could Accelerate Development Timelines for Real Estate Investors

A Honolulu City Council measure to streamline affordable housing projects may reduce development approval times and administrative burdens for real estate owners and investors. Developers and entrepreneurs should monitor the legislative process for specific implementation details and potential opportunities. - Real Estate Owners: Potential for faster project approvals, but exact impact depends on final bill. - Investors: May see improved project viability for affordable housing developments. - Entrepreneurs & Startups: Emerging opportunities in construction tech or project management. - **Action**: Monitor legislative updates and prepare to engage on specific provisions.

Bearded software engineer indoors with ID badge, focusing on cybersecurity.

Increased Risk of Identity Theft Following UH Cyberattack Requires Businesses to Re-evaluate Cybersecurity

Waikiki Businesses Face Increased Traffic Congestion and Air Pollution Risks from Proposed Ala Wai Bridge

Stunning view of Honolulu's skyline with modern skyscrapers and blue ocean backdrop.

Tourism Operators Face Escalated Fines for Unauthorized Marine Zone Activity

People paddling a boat in the clear waters of Honolulu, Hawaii under a bright blue sky.

Breaking

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

West Maui Water System Sale Proposal Creates Uncertainty for Water-Reliant Businesses

Magnifying glass focusing on 'Terms and Conditions' in a document. Ideal for business and legal themes.

Federal Enforcement Shifts Could Increase Business Scrutiny and Compliance Costs

Modern foldable black electric bicycle displayed in a studio environment with white background and lighting equipment.

Hawaii E-Bike Regulations Poised to Impact Businesses, Awaiting Final Passage

Close-up of a vintage globe focusing on Canada and the USA with a warm tone.

Global Conflict Escalation Poses Supply Chain and Tourism Risks for Hawaii Businesses

A simple black and white silhouette of a world map emphasizing continents against a stark background.

Geopolitical Turmoil Raises Supply Chain Costs for Hawaii Businesses Within 30 Days

Professional woman showcasing a home insurance policy document with confidence and clarity.

Ward Village Residents Face Lease Violations Amidst Dog Policy Shift

Explore the lush green valleys meeting the vast blue ocean in Hawaii, a serene natural landscape.

Tour Operators Face Increased Scrutiny and Potential Fines for Unpermitted Activities in Protected Waters

Healthcare professionals in PPE discuss operations during a meeting indoors.

Hawaii's 'Sanctuary State' Status for Youth Gender Transition Could Alter Healthcare and Labor Landscapes

Gold coins scattered with a stock market graph and a percentage symbol on an orange background.

Hawaii Economic Growth Forecast Dims: Businesses and Investors Must Adapt to Slower Pace and Persistent Risks

A street corner in Hilo, Hawaii with stop signs and reflections on a glass window. Scenic palm-lined beachfront view.

Hawaii Island Construction & Real Estate Sectors Face Opportunities and Planning Demands from YWCA Hilo Redevelopment

Black male realtor placing 'For Sale' sign in front of a suburban house.

New Real Estate Agent Training Program May Increase Transaction Quality, Impact Brokerage Competition

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

Ongoing Public Corruption Probe Could Lead to Regulatory Shifts; Vigilance Advised for Businesses Interacting with State Entities

AI & Technology

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Innovative robot assisting with tray returns in bustling urban food court.In-Depth

AI Performance Monitoring Threatens Hawaii's Service Industry: Customer Service AI Could Impact Staffing and Operations within 3-6 Months

Fast-food giants are deploying AI to monitor employee customer interactions, a trend Hawaii's small business operators and tourism providers must urgently evaluate to avoid competitive disadvantages.…

Close-up of a smartphone displaying ChatGPT app held over AI textbook.

CEOs Prioritize AI Investment: Hawaii Businesses Risk Competitive Lag if Adoption is Delayed

A growing number of CEOs are embedding Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their core business strategies and demanding AI literacy from their workforce. Businesses in Hawaii that delay AI integration…

Smartphone screen showing ChatGPT introduction by OpenAI, showcasing AI technology.

Hawaii Entrepreneurs and Investors: Massive AI Investment Signals Accelerating Tech Landscape

OpenAI's latest $110 billion funding round from tech giants signals a significant acceleration in AI development and integration, requiring Hawaii's entrepreneurs and investors to strategically…

A robot and woman engage in chess, showcasing technology and strategic thinking.

AI-Driven Efficiency: Block's 40% Staff Cut Signals Immediate Need for Hawaii Businesses to Re-evaluate Workforce Strategy

Jack Dorsey's Block has drastically reduced its workforce by 40%, citing AI efficiencies as the primary driver, signaling a paradigm shift in operational scaling that Hawaii businesses must address…

Tourism & Hospitality

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Stunning aerial view of a tropical beach with turquoise waters and golden sand in Maui, Hawaii.

Maui Tourism Recovery Accelerates, Signaling Increased Demand and Potential Staffing Pressures

Maui saw a significant double-digit rebound in visitor arrivals and spending in January 2026, indicating a stronger tourism recovery. Small business operators and tourism providers should prepare for…

Explore the lush green valleys meeting the vast blue ocean in Hawaii, a serene natural landscape.

Tour Operators Face Increased Scrutiny and Potential Fines for Unpermitted Activities in Protected Waters

A recent $10,000 fine for unauthorized helicopter snorkel drops in a North Shore marine conservation district signals heightened enforcement, potentially impacting operational costs and compliance…

Stunning aerial shot of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, showcasing clear blue waters and high-rise buildings.

Hawaii Tourism Stabilization Offers Predictable Operating Environment for Hospitality Sector

The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) reports that Hawaii's tourism sector has stabilized, signaling a more predictable outlook for businesses reliant on visitor spending.…

Breathtaking aerial shot of Waikiki Beach and Honolulu's skyline under a clear sky.

Uneven Tourism Recovery May Shift Resource Allocation and Demand for Hospitality Businesses

Hawaii's tourism economy saw a strong January, but an uneven recovery means businesses must monitor regional demand shifts and potential impacts on staffing and pricing. Investors should watch for…

Business & Startups

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A diverse group of professionals collaborating in a modern office setting with a brainstorming session.In-Depth

Community Project Funding Opportunity Lost for Businesses with March 4 Deadline Missed

Non-profits and community organizations that overlook the March 4th deadline for AARP Community Challenge Grants will forfeit a critical funding stream for local improvement projects this cycle. This…

Illustration of business colleague shaking hands for agreement against concluded contract during negotiation

New Federal Act May Create Funding & Support Opportunities for Minority-Owned Businesses

The federal SPARK Act, introduced by Senator Hirono, aims to boost entrepreneurship for underserved communities nationwide, potentially opening new avenues for funding, mentorship, and business…

Close-up of hands exchanging an eco-friendly takeout box outdoors.

Hawaii Food Businesses Face Immediate Liability Risk from Yakitori Fried Rice Recall

Costco's recall of Yakitori Chicken Fried Rice due to potential glass contamination requires immediate action from Hawaii food service businesses to prevent liability and protect consumers. Failing…

A rustic wooden house surrounded by a flourishing garden with roses and green grass under clear blue skies.

Local Businesses: Secure Preferred Supplier Status & Promotions at Gardenland Hawaii's Kahului Showroom Grand Opening

Gardenland Hawaii is set to unveil its renovated Kahului showroom on February 28, 2026, creating a window for local businesses to engage with new landscaping and home improvement offerings and…

Real-Estate & Development

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Close-up of a hand holding keys with a miniature wooden house in the background, symbolizing real estate investment.In-Depth

Hawaii Real Estate Market Poised for Activity as Mortgage Rates Drop Below 6%

Falling mortgage rates below 6%, marking a three-year low, are expected to unlock pent-up demand in Hawaii's housing market, potentially stimulating sales and refinancing. Real estate owners and…

A street corner in Hilo, Hawaii with stop signs and reflections on a glass window. Scenic palm-lined beachfront view.

Hawaii Island Construction & Real Estate Sectors Face Opportunities and Planning Demands from YWCA Hilo Redevelopment

A $23.3 million redevelopment plan for the YWCA facility in Hilo, Hawaʻi Island, presents new opportunities for contractors and suppliers, alongside potential shifts in local real estate and…

Businessman in suit writes on whiteboard displaying mortgage loan rates during a real estate meeting.

Declining Mortgage Rates Present 3-6 Month Window for Hawaii Real Estate Investors and Owners

Falling mortgage rates, hitting their lowest point in over three years as of February 27, 2026, are poised to stimulate Hawaii's real estate market. This presents a time-sensitive opportunity for…

Professional woman showcasing a home insurance policy document with confidence and clarity.

Ward Village Residents Face Lease Violations Amidst Dog Policy Shift

Residents of Ward Village are at risk of lease violations as the property management appears to be reneging on its previously marketed dog-friendly policies. This shift impacts tenant relations and…

Finance & Investment

See all in Finance →
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…

A close-up shot of a hand offering a blue debit card for payment.In-Depth

American Savings Bank Reopens Lahaina Branch: A Symbol of Recovery and Investment

American 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…

Policy & Regulation

See all in Policy →
Hand holding assorted pieces of beach plastic debris highlighting environmental impact.

Potential 5-Cent Container Fee Could Increase Product Costs for Hawaii Businesses

Proposed legislation, HB 1928, aims to overhaul Hawaii's HI-5 recycling program by shifting financial responsibility to producers, potentially adding 5 cents per container to business operating…

A realtor finalizes a home sale with a handshake agreement, welcoming new homeowners to their property.

Hawaii Real Estate Agents Face New Penalties for Off-Market Listings

Proposed legislation could penalize real estate agents for engaging in private or off-market property sales, a common practice in Hawaii. This change may impact listing strategies, transaction…

Two men in business attire engage in a professional discussion in a modern office.

Maui Settlement Payouts Face Court-Ordered Scrutiny: Potential for Accelerated or Delayed Recovery

Maui fire survivors have petitioned the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court to compel insurance companies to cease appeals, seeking to expedite settlement payments. This legal maneuver could either hasten the…

Magnifying glass focusing on 'Terms and Conditions' in a document. Ideal for business and legal themes.

Federal Enforcement Shifts Could Increase Business Scrutiny and Compliance Costs

A potential shift towards broader federal search and enforcement powers could lead to increased scrutiny and compliance burdens for businesses. Businesses should monitor federal regulatory proposals…

Infrastructure & Transportation

See all in Infrastructure →
Close-up of a fuel pump showing gasoline and diesel options at a gas station in Los Angeles.

Falling Gas Prices Offer Marginal Relief on Hawaii Business Operating Costs

Recent reports indicate a sustained drop in gasoline prices across Hawaii, offering a slight reduction in transportation-related operating expenses for local businesses. While the trend is positive,…

Aerial view of street intersection in Honolulu, Hawaii with cars and pedestrian lanes.

Public Input Window Closing: Future Transit Plans Could Reshape Real Estate Values and Business Logistics

The public comment period for Hawaii's Long-Range Land Transportation Plan closes soon, making it critical for stakeholders to voice concerns that could influence future infrastructure development.…

Utility workers assess and fix downed power lines on a sunny day, ensuring safety and service restoration.In-Depth

West Maui Businesses Face Ongoing Disruption Risk from Power Outages and PSPS Threats

Recurring power outages and the potential for Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in West Maui and other parts of the island are causing immediate operational disruptions and necessitate proactive…

Hawaiian airline plane captured flying against a clear dusk sky in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.In-Depth

Hawaiian Airlines Fleet Decision Could Reduce Interisland Connectivity and Raise Operational Costs for Businesses

Hawaiian Airlines is evaluating whether to continue an all-Hawaii based operation as it replaces its aging 717 fleet, a decision that could impact local employment and air transport capacity.

Sustainability & Resources

See all in Sustainability →
Detailed macro shot of a rhinoceros beetle with water droplets on a lush green palm leaf.

Ecological Threat to Loulu Palms Could Undermine Hawaii's Natural Appeal and Tourism Revenue

The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle's targeting of endangered loulu palms presents an escalating risk to Hawaii's unique biodiversity, threatening a significant component of the islands' natural marketing…

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

West Maui Water System Sale Proposal Creates Uncertainty for Water-Reliant Businesses

A proposal by a golf course owner to purchase the West Maui water system has generated community skepticism, potentially impacting water availability and operational costs for local businesses and…

A vibrant mix of discarded textile bags in a recycling pile, showcasing the importance of waste management.

Hāna Businesses Face Increased Disposal Costs and Regulatory Risk Without Timely Scrap Metal Management

East Maui businesses face an immediate challenge on March 5-6, 2026, as a localized metals collection event offers a narrow window for managing bulky waste, impacting operating costs for those who…

Fresh green oranges, one peeled to show juicy segments, on a white background.

Maui Citrus Farmers Can Tap New School Lunch Market This Spring

Mahi Pono's partnership with the Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) creates an immediate opportunity for Maui-based citrus farmers to supply mandarins to public schools. Farmers and food producers…