The PGA Tour has canceled The Sentry tournament on Maui for 2026, citing drought conditions and logistical challenges. This decision is poised to deliver a significant economic setback to the island, impacting local businesses and the tourism sector.
A severe drought in Maui has caused the cancellation of the 2026 PGA Tour's opening event at the Kapalua Plantation Course, significantly impacting the island's tourism sector and raising concerns for local businesses. This cancellation underscores the growing challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity for Hawaii's economy.
A severe drought has led to the cancellation of the 2026 PGA Tour season opener at Kapalua's Plantation Course on Maui, creating significant disruptions for the island's tourism sector and local businesses. This unexpected development underscores the growing challenges of water scarcity and its impacts on Hawaii's economy, particularly its hospitality and leisure industries.
The PGA Tour has canceled the 2026 Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua Resort on Maui due to severe water restrictions and damage to the Plantation Course. This decision has significant economic implications for the island, impacting tourism, local businesses, and charitable organizations.
The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) is inviting Hawai'i product manufacturers to exhibit at the Winter FancyFaire in San Diego in January 2026. This presents a valuable chance for local businesses to showcase their unique products and expand their reach.
Multiple recent reports confirm that Hawaiʻi continues to grapple with a significantly high cost of living, impacting residents' financial well-being and posing challenges for businesses. The rising expenses in housing, food, and other essentials are causing a strain on both individuals and companies operating in the islands.
Margotto Hawaii has announced a temporary closure following a jury verdict awarding $3.15 million to a former sous chef who alleged physical and emotional abuse. This development raises significant questions surrounding the restaurant's operational practices and could have lasting repercussions for the local hospitality sector.
A recent arrest in Honolulu has brought renewed attention to drug-related crime, with significant implications for local businesses, the real estate market, and overall community safety. The seizure of nearly six pounds of methamphetamine from a 29-year-old man has prompted discussions about the drug's impact on various sectors of the Hawaiian economy.
The Maui County Council has unanimously approved the Kaiahale ‘o Kahiluhilu project, a state-fast-tracked affordable housing and mixed-use development in Kahului. This decision underscores the county's commitment to addressing the critical need for affordable housing amidst ongoing challenges, including water availability concerns.
The transport of approximately 400,000 tons of debris from the devastating Lahaina wildfires has reached a significant milestone, with over 80% of the relocation now complete, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This progress is a critical step in the ongoing recovery efforts and has substantial implications for Hawaii's business community, particularly those involved in real estate, construction, and tourism.
The Hilton Hawaiian Village is moving forward with plans to construct a new tower on Ala Moana Boulevard, signaling significant growth for the resort and potential investment opportunities in Waikiki. This project aims to enhance the gateway to Waikiki and accommodate a growing number of visitors.
In a closely divided vote, the Maui County Council approved critical exemptions for the 119-unit Hale Mahaolu Ke Kahua affordable housing project in Waiʻehu. This decision allows the project to move forward, potentially unlocking vital financing and addressing the pressing need for affordable housing on the island.
Matson continues to lead the pack as Hawaii's most profitable company, according to the latest rankings by Hawaii Business Magazine. However, the financial landscape reveals a stark contrast, with Hawaiian Electric reporting substantial losses tied to the Maui wildfire settlement.
Following the Federal Reserve's decision to lower interest rates, major U.S. banks have reduced their prime lending rates, potentially easing borrowing costs for Hawaii's businesses and consumers. This move could stimulate investment and provide relief to those with existing debt.
The Federal Reserve's recent quarter-point interest rate cut has significant implications for businesses and investors in Hawaii. This move is expected to influence various financial aspects, including borrowing costs, potentially impacting real estate, investment strategies, and overall economic activity in the state.
Central Pacific Bank (CPB) has appointed Raoul Magaña, formerly of First Hawaiian Bank, as Group Senior Vice President and Manager of Commercial Real Estate Lending and Wholesale Credit. This move signals CPB's strategic focus on strengthening its real estate portfolio and credit offerings in the competitive Hawaiian market.
Terri Ann Otani, the former secretary and HR director for Mitsunaga & Associates, has pleaded not guilty to charges of making illegal campaign contributions in 2020. The case, set for trial in November, raises questions about political ethics and transparency in Hawaii's business sector.
As Hawaii strives to maintain its leadership in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, discussions around state-level incentives are gaining momentum. A proposed gasoline displacement incentive is being touted as a potential solution to boost EV uptake and fill the gap left by expiring federal programs.
The Hawaii Supreme Court has issued a nuanced ruling on Governor Josh Green's emergency proclamations concerning affordable housing, upholding the governor's ability to act in emergencies while also setting boundaries on executive power, a decision with significant implications for real estate developers, investors, and policymakers in Hawaii.
Terri Ann Otani, the former secretary and HR director for Mitsunaga & Associates, has pleaded not guilty to charges of making illegal campaign contributions. The case, which stems from contributions made during the 2020 election cycle, highlights the importance of adhering to campaign finance laws in Hawaii.
The U.S. Coast Guard has awarded a $68.857 million contract for new HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft hangars at Air Station Barbers Point. This significant investment is poised to boost mission readiness across the Oceania District and create opportunities for local businesses.
The Kapiolani Boulevard improvement project is facing a year-long extension, promising continued traffic congestion and potential disruptions for businesses and commuters in the area. This extended timeline necessitates careful planning by local enterprises and residents alike.
The U.S. Coast Guard has awarded a $69 million contract to construct new hangars and related infrastructure at Air Station Barbers Point in Hawaii. This significant investment is poised to boost local business opportunities related to construction, maintenance, and other support services.
DHL has announced the opening of its first company-owned and operated express shipping store in Honolulu, marking a significant investment in Hawaii's business infrastructure and offering expanded services for local businesses and residents. This move is poised to enhance logistical capabilities and provide more efficient shipping solutions within the state.
The ongoing drought in West Maui is not only jeopardizing major events like the Sentry Tournament but also severely impacting residents' daily lives, prompting calls for immediate action from the state Commission on Water Resource Management. The crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management solutions and their profound impact on Hawaii's economy.
Shipping companies are advocating for a global fee on greenhouse gas emissions, a move that could reshape the maritime industry and impact Hawaii's businesses, particularly those involved in import and export. While proponents see this as a step towards sustainability, it draws opposition from some, raising concerns about increased costs.
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. This proactive measure is crucial for protecting the state's marine ecosystems and the economy dependent on them.
The Hawai‘i Supreme Court has ruled that the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) violated the state constitution by renewing a permit allowing the diversion of East Maui stream water, impacting Alexander & Baldwin and raising concerns about water rights and environmental protection. This decision has significant implications for businesses and development projects on Maui and across the state.
