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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

Hawaii businesses must act immediately to mitigate critical AI security risks. Conduct a thorough audit of all AI agent deployments, especially OpenClaw, and isolate any unmanaged instances. Rotate credentials and enforce least-privilege access across affected machines. Within 30 days, review all third-party AI service providers, assessing their security postures and data handling practices, and seek alternatives for vendors with inadequate security. Additionally, implement human oversight for AI agent actions and establish clear registration processes to prevent unauthorized policy changes and data breaches triggered by unsecured AI agents.

Entrepreneurs and tourism operators should monitor the new CREATE Hawaiʻi program from ʻEwalu Industries and the Harold K. L. Castle Foundation. While this initiative offers future hiring opportunities in creative media, proactive engagement through mentorship or internship inquiries by late 2027 or early 2028 could provide early access to emerging talent to enhance digital content and marketing efforts.

Featured

Aerial photograph showing severe structural damage after a hurricane.

Increased Risk of Infrastructure Disruption and Supply Chain Delays Expected Due to Ongoing Storm Damage Assessments

Hawaii's ongoing storm damage assessments and explicit warnings about increased future disaster risks indicate a heightened likelihood of infrastructure failures and supply chain disruptions. Businesses should monitor infrastructure resilience and regional weather patterns to mitigate potential operational impacts. - Small Business Operators: Face potential operating disruptions and increased material costs. - Real Estate Owners: Should anticipate longer repair times and potential insurance premium hikes. - Investors: May need to re-evaluate risk exposure in vulnerable sectors. - **Action**: Monitor key infrastructure reports and proactively assess supply chain resilience.

Breaking

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Wooden tiles spelling 'phishing' highlight cybersecurity themes.
In-Depth

Hawaii Businesses Face Critical AI Security Risks: Unpatched AI Assistants Expose Sensitive Data

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

Rising Fuel Costs Threaten Hawaii Business Margins Amidst Geopolitical Instability

Young engineers working on a robot project in a workshop setting.

New Creative Media Talent Pipeline Emerges, Offering Future Hiring Opportunities

A cybersecurity expert inspecting lines of code on multiple monitors in a dimly lit office.

AI Gateway Security Breaches Expose Hawaii Businesses to Data Loss and Operational Halt

Abstract digital visualization of AI, featuring colorful 3D elements and modern design.

Hawaii Businesses Face Catastrophic Risks from Unsecured AI Agents: Immediate Audits Required

Stunning aerial view capturing Honolulu's coastline and urban sprawl, showcasing beautiful tropical landscapes.

Hawaii Tourism Operators Can Expect Increased Demand & Revenue in Q2 2026

Scrabble tiles spelling 'MARKETING' on a wooden table with a neutral background.

AI-driven marketing automation could cut content costs and boost brand consistency: Hawaii businesses should prepare for competitive shifts.

Close-up of an AI chat interface on a laptop screen in a dark setting.

Hawaii Tech Firms Must Prepare for AI Agent Identity Management: New Security Frameworks Emerging

Contemporary workspace featuring a laptop, drink, and tropical plant in a cozy cafe setting.

UH Mānoa Program Rankings May Increase Demand for Skilled Labor and Local Services

Close-up of a corporate tax form on a textured wooden surface, highlighting document details.

Legislature's Budget Priorities May Delay Promised Tax Relief, Increasing Business Operating Costs

AI & Technology

See all in AI →
Wooden tiles spelling 'phishing' highlight cybersecurity themes.In-Depth

Hawaii Businesses Face Critical AI Security Risks: Unpatched AI Assistants Expose Sensitive Data

Local businesses are now at critical risk as AI assistants like OpenClaw, with widespread vulnerabilities and no centralized controls, can lead to severe data breaches. Immediate action is required…

A cybersecurity expert inspecting lines of code on multiple monitors in a dimly lit office.

AI Gateway Security Breaches Expose Hawaii Businesses to Data Loss and Operational Halt

A recent security incident involving a popular AI gateway provider highlights the critical need for Hawaii businesses to rigorously vet their AI vendors and implement robust security protocols to…

Abstract digital visualization of AI, featuring colorful 3D elements and modern design.

Hawaii Businesses Face Catastrophic Risks from Unsecured AI Agents: Immediate Audits Required

New security frameworks reveal critical gaps in AI agent identity and control, exposing Hawaii businesses to severe breaches. Immediate action is needed to audit AI agent behavior, credentials, and…

Scrabble tiles spelling 'MARKETING' on a wooden table with a neutral background.

AI-driven marketing automation could cut content costs and boost brand consistency: Hawaii businesses should prepare for competitive shifts.

Generative AI is proving its ability to create photorealistic marketing assets while ensuring brand compliance, potentially slashing production costs and freeing up marketing resources. Hawaii…

Tourism & Hospitality

See all in Tourism →
Stunning aerial view capturing Honolulu's coastline and urban sprawl, showcasing beautiful tropical landscapes.

Hawaii Tourism Operators Can Expect Increased Demand & Revenue in Q2 2026

Preliminary February 2026 visitor spending data shows a 10.3% increase year-over-year, indicating a strong demand surge that businesses can leverage with proactive operational adjustments. 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 →
Young engineers working on a robot project in a workshop setting.

New Creative Media Talent Pipeline Emerges, Offering Future Hiring Opportunities

A new youth apprenticeship program in creative media, funded by a $200,000 grant, is set to launch, creating a future pipeline of skilled local talent. Entrepreneurs and startups should monitor this…

Contemporary workspace featuring a laptop, drink, and tropical plant in a cozy cafe setting.

UH Mānoa Program Rankings May Increase Demand for Skilled Labor and Local Services

Recent global recognition for 14 UH Mānoa programs suggests a potential increase in both student and faculty migration to Hawaii, impacting demand for local services and the availability of skilled…

Charming BBQ corn stand surrounded by palm trees in Honolulu.In-Depth

Hawaii's Minimum Wage to Reach $16 in 2026: Impacts on Businesses and Economy

Hawaii'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,…

Maui Grapples with Soaring Food Insecurity: Crisis Demands Urgent ActionIn-Depth

Maui Grapples with Soaring Food Insecurity: Crisis Demands Urgent Action

A 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…

Real-Estate & Development

See all in Real-Estate →
Stunning tropical scene with palm trees silhouetted against a colorful twilight sky, evoking vacation vibes.In-Depth

Maui's Vacation Rental Shakeup: Thousands of Units Face Phase-Out

Maui 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…

A sunlit view of railings overlooking the beachfront in Waimea, Hawaii, capturing urban coastal life.In-Depth

Alexander & Baldwin to Go Private in $2.3 Billion Deal, Reshaping Hawaii's Real Estate Landscape

Alexander & 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…

Aerial view of a modern city skyline with the ocean in the background under a blue sky.In-Depth

Alexander & Baldwin to Go Private in Record-Breaking $2.3 Billion Deal, Reshaping Hawaii's Real Estate Landscape

Alexander & 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.

Aerial view of a modern urban skyline featuring prominent skyscrapers and a clear blue sky.In-Depth

A&B's $2.3 Billion Go-Private Deal: A Watershed Moment for Hawaii's Real Estate and Investment Landscape

In a landmark move, Alexander & Baldwin (A&B), the titan of Hawaii's grocery-anchored shopping centers with a 155-year history, has agreed to a $2.3 billion privatization.

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 →
Close-up of a corporate tax form on a textured wooden surface, highlighting document details.

Legislature's Budget Priorities May Delay Promised Tax Relief, Increasing Business Operating Costs

Hawaii's Legislature appears set to prioritize increased government spending over previously signaled tax relief measures. This shift could mean businesses face a prolonged period of higher operating…

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

Rising Fuel Costs Threaten Hawaii Business Margins Amidst Geopolitical Instability

Geopolitical tensions are driving up global fuel prices, directly increasing transportation and logistics costs for Hawaiian businesses. Companies must monitor fuel surcharges and explore cost-saving…

Aerial shot of firefighting base with planes, trucks, and personnel in a rural area of Brazil.In-Depth

PUC Greenlights Hawaiian Electric's Wildfire Mitigation Plan, Paving the Way for Enhanced Grid Resilience

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved Hawaiian Electric's (HECO) 2025-2027 Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP), signaling a significant step towards bolstering the state's infrastructure…

Close-up of a hand signing a legal document with a fountain pen, symbolizing signature and agreement.In-Depth

Hawaii's New Laws: Key Changes and Business Implications

New laws passed by the Hawaii Legislature are now in effect, bringing significant changes to the business environment. These laws impact real estate, finance, and energy sectors, advising…

Infrastructure & Transportation

See all in Infrastructure →
Majestic dam with arches, cascading water, and scenic landscape of hills and trees.In-Depth

Wahiawa Dam Failure Imminent: Immediate Evacuation and Operational Halt Required for Businesses in Flood Zone

The 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…

A stunning aerial shot showcasing Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River under sunlight.In-Depth

Wahiawa Dam Failure Forces Immediate Evacuation: Business Operations Cease in Affected Zones

A 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.…

High-angle aerial view of a runway at Kahului Airport in Maui, Hawaii with marked lanes and clear sky.In-Depth

Maui Road Closures Threaten 15-25% Delivery Delays and Staffing Disruptions for Businesses

Ongoing road closures and hazardous conditions on Maui, particularly along Hāna Highway, are creating critical disruptions to business operations, potentially causing significant delivery delays and…

From above of round black puddle with glares on surface located in sand cavity in evening timeIn-Depth

Lahaina Businesses Face Immediate Access Disruptions and Potential Displacement Due to Worsening Sinkholes

New and worsening sinkholes in Lahaina are causing evacuation advisories, directly threatening physical access to businesses and properties. Small business operators, real estate owners, and tourism…

Sustainability & Resources

See all in Sustainability →
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.…

A serene rural scene of brown and white cows grazing in the lush green hills of Waimea, Hawaii.In-Depth

North Shore Crop Losses Trigger Immediate Food Supply Chain Disruptions and Price Hikes Statewide

Recent flooding has caused significant crop damage across Oahu's North Shore, creating immediate agricultural supply shortages and driving up food prices for businesses across Hawaii. Small business…

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…

A woman in activewear meditating on a tropical beach, promoting health and tranquility.In-Depth

Adolescent Liver Disease Risk Study Signals Potential Long-Term Healthcare Cost Increases for Hawaii Businesses

New research from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa links common 'forever chemicals' (PFAS) to a tripling of liver disease risk in adolescents, signaling a potential future rise in healthcare…