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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 business leaders must finalize revised Q1 2026 budgets by the end of March 2026, incorporating contingency plans for reduced revenue and increased operating costs to prepare for potential margin pressures and reduced investment, as signaled by widespread business pessimism see analysis. Stress-test your cash flow under various economic scenarios and identify capital expenditures that can be deferred.

Monitor legislative updates on the proposed rental car tax, as its advancement could increase visitor costs and operator expenses by 5-10%; rental car companies should model financial implications and consider revising pricing if the bill progresses here, while tourism operators should prepare for potential shifts in visitor discretionary spending.

Additionally, keep a close watch on the Haleakala telescope project's public and official comment periods. Significant opposition could directly affect Maui's investment, job creation, and economic landscape, requiring stakeholders to potentially engage depending on outcomes like preliminary injunctions or definitive agency statements details emerge. Also, track legislative proceedings and Hawaii County planning department announcements regarding the Banyan Drive redevelopment in Hilo, as this project could reshape East Hawaii's real estate and tourism sectors and may present early engagement or investment opportunities learn more.

Featured

Breathtaking view of the Haleakalā volcano crater under a clear blue sky in Maui, Hawaii.In-Depth

Maui Real Estate and Tourism Sectors Face Uncertainty as Haleakala Telescope Project Encounters Significant Opposition

Mounting opposition to proposed military telescope development on Haleakala summit risks project delays or cancellation, impacting Maui's future development, investment, and potentially its tourism appeal. - Real Estate Owners: Uncertainty over future land use and development on Maui's leeward slopes. - Investors: Potential re-evaluation of Hawaii-based tech or science sector investments. - Tourism Operators: Possible shifts in destination appeal or impact on Haleakala visitor experience. - Entrepreneurs & Startups: Delays in potential tech ecosystem growth tied to scientific infrastructure. - **Action**: Monitor key opposition points and county/state environmental review processes.

Visual abstraction of neural networks in AI technology, featuring data flow and algorithms.

Hawaii Healthcare Companies Can Now Adopt AI for Faster, Compliant Drug Trials, Mirroring Industry Leaders

Hilo's Banyan Drive Redevelopment Could Reshape East Hawaii Real Estate and Tourism Landscape

Vertical shot of Rainbow Falls waterfall surrounded by lush greenery in Hilo, Hawaii, USA.

Proposed Rental Car Tax Could Increase Visitor Costs and Operator Expenses by 5-10%

A close-up view of a 1040 US Individual Income Tax Return form on a wooden surface.

Breaking

See all breaking →
A car struggles through a flooded street surrounded by trees after a heavy rainstorm.

Operational Disruptions Loom as Extended Flood Watch Threatens Businesses Across Hawaii

Aerial cityscape of modern skyscrapers in downtown Honolulu on a sunny day.

Howard Hughes' Mahana Tower Expansion Could Add 7% More Units, Influencing Future Honolulu Real Estate Values

A close-up view of a hand holding an open passport with various stamps, highlighting travel experiences.

Frequent International Travelers Face Significant Delays with Indefinite Global Entry Closure

Close-up of a person's hand giving a thumbs down gesture against a gray background.

Widespread Business Pessimism Signals Potential Q1 2026 Economic Slowdown: Prepare for Margin Pressures and Reduced Investment

A picturesque boat silhouette floats on the ocean at sunset with vibrant skies in Hanapepe, Hawaii.

Hanapepe Business Access Disrupted by Unscheduled Bus Stop Closure

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

Public Beach Access Backlash Signals Heightened Scrutiny for Tourism Real Estate Developments

Volunteers loading garbage bags onto a truck during an environmental cleanup event.

Maui Businesses Should Monitor Local Environmental Initiatives for CSR Opportunities and Supply Chain Clues

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

TSA PreCheck Program Stability Remains a Watch Item for Hawaii Businesses

Aerial view of a flooded town showcasing buildings and streets submerged in water.

Flash Flooding Threatens Logistics and Operations Across Most Islands: Immediate Preparations Advised

A flooded street with road closed signs reflecting in the water along a tree-lined sidewalk.

Potential Supply Chain Disruptions and Operational Halts Loom for Hawaii Businesses Due to Flood Watch

Retro typewriter with 'AI Ethics' on paper, conveying technology themes.

Hawaii Businesses Face New "Audit Loop" Mandate for AI Governance to Mitigate Risks and Ensure Compliance

A Hereford cow stands on a green pasture in Hilo, Hawaii, showcasing serene rural life.

Hawaii Organic Farm Transitions Face Funding Gaps as Federal Program Ends Early

AI & Technology

See all in AI →
Retro typewriter with 'AI Ethics' on paper, conveying technology themes.

Hawaii Businesses Face New "Audit Loop" Mandate for AI Governance to Mitigate Risks and Ensure Compliance

The rapid evolution of AI necessitates a shift from static, post-deployment compliance checks to continuous, real-time "audit loops." Businesses that utilize AI must now integrate governance directly…

Artistic abstract with bright red and beige patterns and textures.

Rogue AI Agents Threaten Hawaii Businesses: New Enterprise Controls Emerge

The rapid, unmanaged adoption of powerful AI agents by employees presents significant data security and operational risks for Hawaii businesses. A new enterprise solution offers a 'governance layer'…

A financial report with a pie chart, calculator, notebook, and glasses on a desk.

Automated Financial Reporting Tools Could Slash Accounting Costs for Hawaii Small Businesses

A new wave of AI-powered financial reporting software promises to significantly reduce the time and expense associated with preparing financial statements. Hawaii's small business operators and…

Close-up of a vibrant Blue-Fronted Amazon parrot perched indoors, showcasing colorful plumage.In-Depth

Hawaii Tech Entrepreneurs Can Unlock New Revenue Streams by Integrating with Amazon Quick via MCP Protocol

Amazon's new Model Context Protocol (MCP) for Quick allows third-party developers to integrate external tools, opening direct opportunities for Hawaii-based tech companies to build and offer enhanced…

Tourism & Hospitality

See all in Tourism →
Low angle view of a commercial airplane flying over tropical trees against a blue sky.

Tourism Operators Face Increased Risk of Inflated Ticket Costs and Customer Dissatisfaction Due to Airline Overbooking Practices

Airlines are increasingly overbooking flights to Hawaii, particularly in premium cabins, leading to denied boarding for paying customers and potentially impacting traveler satisfaction. Tourism…

Serene beach scene in Hawaii showcasing pristine waters and clear skies; ideal for travel inspiration.In-Depth

Maui's Vacation Rental Rollercoaster: Balancing Tourism, Housing, and the Future

Maui 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…

Travelers silhouetted in a modern airport terminal with glass windows and visible airplane tails.In-Depth

Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Achieve Major Integration Milestone: A Single Operating Certificate

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have reached a significant milestone in their integration process, receiving a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).…

Dramatic aerial shot of ocean waves crashing against coastal rocks.In-Depth

Hawaii Under Tsunami Warning: Tourism and Hospitality Sectors Face Immediate Challenges

A tsunami warning issued for Hawaii following an earthquake off the coast of Russia necessitates immediate evacuations and poses significant challenges to the state's tourism and hospitality sectors.…

Business & Startups

See all in Business →
Close-up of a person's hand giving a thumbs down gesture against a gray background.

Widespread Business Pessimism Signals Potential Q1 2026 Economic Slowdown: Prepare for Margin Pressures and Reduced Investment

Over half of Hawaii's business leaders anticipate economic conditions to worsen in 2026, indicating a need for proactive financial and operational adjustments among most sectors. While tourism…

Wooden letter blocks spelling tariffs, China, and USA representing trade relations.

Hawaii Businesses Face Immediate Margin Squeeze: 86% Report Tariff-Driven Cost Increases

A recent survey reveals that 86% of Hawaii businesses are experiencing elevated costs due to tariffs, with nearly half anticipating profit drops exceeding 10% within months. Businesses must…

US fifty dollar bills with reflection on dark background symbolizing wealth and finance.

Federal Climate Grant Disruptions May Force Entrepreneurs and Agriculture to Seek Alternative Funding

The termination of federal climate grants by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) creates immediate uncertainty for Hawaii's sustainability-focused businesses and agricultural operations.…

Cutout paper composition of male with magnifier received expensive taxes and payments on blue background

Persistent Import Cost Pressures Expected Despite Supreme Court Tariff Ruling

Local business experts indicate that the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on certain tariffs will not lead to immediate price reductions for imported goods in Hawaii. Businesses should anticipate…

Real-Estate & Development

See all in Real-Estate →
Tax documents and office supplies on green surface, indicating tax season planning and finance concepts.

Hawaii Island High-End Homeowners to Face Increased Property Tax Burden Under Proposed Tiered Rate

Hawaii Island's potential adoption of a higher property tax rate for homes valued over $4 million will increase operating costs and influence investment strategies for affected property owners.…

Aerial cityscape of modern skyscrapers in downtown Honolulu on a sunny day.

Howard Hughes' Mahana Tower Expansion Could Add 7% More Units, Influencing Future Honolulu Real Estate Values

Howard Hughes Corporation is proposing to increase the unit count at its under-construction Mahana Tower in Ward Village by 111 units, potentially impacting future housing supply and investor…

Explore a stylish living room using a smartphone for virtual real estate tours.

Oahu Real Estate Owners Face Delayed Transactions Due to Property Record Errors

Inaccurate property records for bedrooms, lot size, or square footage are causing significant delays and complications for Oahu real estate transactions. Property owners should proactively verify and…

A diverse group of professionals having a meeting in a modern office setting with large windows.

Hawaii Construction Costs Risk Escalation Amid Lingering Tariff Uncertainty

Developers in Hawaii face continued delays and cost overruns in construction projects due to ongoing tariff uncertainty, placing them 6-12 months behind mainland schedules. Real estate owners and…

Finance & Investment

See all in Finance →
Wooden tiles spelling 'USA' and 'TARIFFS' on a wooden surface symbolizing trade issues.

Reduced Import Costs Potentially Boost Hawaii Business Margins; Watch for Shifting Investment Trends

The Supreme Court's ruling against global tariffs could lower import expenses for businesses and affect market volatility, prompting a need to monitor investment portfolios and supply chains.…

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

Public Beach Access Backlash Signals Heightened Scrutiny for Tourism Real Estate Developments

A recent legislative proposal to allow hotels to lease public beach land faced overwhelming public opposition and was withdrawn. While this specific bill failed, the strong public reaction indicates…

Modern workspace featuring a laptop, documents, and areca palm for a serene indoor setting.

Hawaii Businesses Face Increased Litigation Risk and Compliance Costs Due to New Gender Identity Bathroom Access Law

Businesses in Hawaii must now comply with SB3024, mandating bathroom and locker room access based on gender identity, which introduces new legal investigation protocols and potential for lawsuits.…

Portrait of a confident female doctor wearing a mask and stethoscope, arms crossed.

HMSA-HPH Merger May Increase Healthcare Costs and Reduce Provider Choice

A proposed merger between Hawaii's largest health insurer, HMSA, and Hawaii Pacific Health could lead to higher healthcare costs and fewer choices for businesses and residents. Businesses should…

Close-up of a nurse in green scrubs holding a tablet and stethoscope, symbolizing modern healthcare.

Hawaii Healthcare Providers Face Regulatory Shift: Certificate of Need Reforms Under Review

Potential changes to Hawaii's Certificate of Need (CON) regulations are being debated in the legislature, which could significantly alter the landscape for healthcare providers and investors.…

Infrastructure & Transportation

See all in Infrastructure →
A close-up view of a hand holding an open passport with various stamps, highlighting travel experiences.

Frequent International Travelers Face Significant Delays with Indefinite Global Entry Closure

Global Entry expedited clearance lanes at Hawaii airports are indefinitely closed, forcing frequent international travelers to rely solely on standard processing or TSA PreCheck. Businesses and…

Aerial view of a flooded town showcasing buildings and streets submerged in water.

Flash Flooding Threatens Logistics and Operations Across Most Islands: Immediate Preparations Advised

A flood watch issued for all Hawaiian Islands except the Big Island from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning poses immediate risks to supply chains, transportation, and business operations.…

A car struggles through a flooded street surrounded by trees after a heavy rainstorm.

Operational Disruptions Loom as Extended Flood Watch Threatens Businesses Across Hawaii

An extended Flood Watch through Monday afternoon poses immediate risks of service interruptions, property damage, and supply chain delays for businesses statewide. Small operators and tourism…

A picturesque boat silhouette floats on the ocean at sunset with vibrant skies in Hanapepe, Hawaii.

Hanapepe Business Access Disrupted by Unscheduled Bus Stop Closure

The closure of the Hanapepe bus stop due to damage creates immediate access challenges for employees and customers, impacting businesses reliant on public transit. Operators must implement…

Sustainability & Resources

See all in Sustainability →
Detailed view of a rhinoceros beetle on a textured surface, showcasing its unique horn.

Hawaii County Agricultural & Landscaping Businesses Face Extended Compliance Burden Due to Beetle Host Material Restrictions Until April 30

Hawaii County has extended its voluntary compliance order prohibiting the movement of certain beetle host materials through April 30, impacting agricultural and landscaping businesses. Failure to…

Volunteers loading garbage bags onto a truck during an environmental cleanup event.

Maui Businesses Should Monitor Local Environmental Initiatives for CSR Opportunities and Supply Chain Clues

The new partnership between Lahainaluna Agricultural Learning Center and Treecovery indicates a growing local emphasis on environmental restoration, which could present avenues for corporate social…

A Hereford cow stands on a green pasture in Hilo, Hawaii, showcasing serene rural life.

Hawaii Organic Farm Transitions Face Funding Gaps as Federal Program Ends Early

The federal Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), crucial for Hawaii's farms seeking organic certification, is ending prematurely, forcing farmers to accelerate their plans or find…

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.…