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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 immediately activate emergency preparedness plans to mitigate potential revenue loss and property damage from Hurricane Fausto. Secure physical assets, communicate with staff and customers about disruptions, and review insurance coverage now. Separately, reassess all current AI tool subscriptions within 90 days. Identify tasks solvable by less expensive, 'good enough' AI models to reduce operational costs and avoid overspending on premium services.

Monitor the Skyline Rail project for revised completion timelines and funding strategies. If projected delays exceed six months, reassess business continuity and investment risk. Also, watch the DLNR shoreline certification and development permit applications for the Ko Olina hotel parcels. Be prepared to adjust long-term strategies for real estate, investment, and tourism operations as project milestones advance over the next five years.

Featured

A breathtaking satellite image capturing a swirling hurricane over the Earth's ocean.In-Depth

Hurricane Fausto Threatens Immediate Revenue Loss and Property Damage Across Hawaii Businesses

Hurricane Fausto's approach necessitates urgent business continuity actions to prevent significant property damage and revenue interruption within the next 72 hours. Assess vulnerability, secure assets, and implement staff safety protocols immediately. - Small Business Operators: Risk of physical damage, supply chain disruption, and forced closures within 72 hours. - Real Estate Owners: High probability of coastal flooding and wind damage to properties. - Tourism Operators: Imminent cancellations and flight disruptions impacting bookings and revenue. - Agriculture & Food Producers: Potential for crop destruction and damage to infrastructure. - Healthcare Providers: Disruption to patient care and supply chain for medical necessities. - **Action**: Implement emergency preparedness plans immediately; activate communication protocols with staff and customers.

Security guard with cowboy hat patrolling inside a building, showcasing law enforcement and security themes.

Maui Businesses Face Heightened Compliance Risk Amidst ICE Activity and New State Policies

Skyline Rail Project Cost Overruns Threaten Timelines for Businesses Relying on Transit

A striking perspective of metal railway tracks through an iron bridge in daylight.

Ko Olina Hotel Development Signals Potential Shift in West Oahu Tourism Capacity

Picturesque view of Ko Olina Beach in Hawaii, framed by palm trees and a tranquil ocean scene.

Breaking

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

Tropical Storm Fausto Portends Operational Disruptions and Increased Costs for Hawaii Businesses

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

Increased State Contract Scrutiny Looms Following Bribery Indictment

Side view full length of slim unrecognizable brunette in swimwear sitting in lotus pose and meditating while spending time near peaceful pond in tropical country

Luxury Wellness Expansion at Four Seasons Maui Signals Shifting Visitor Demands

Man paddleboarding in a tropical lagoon in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering a serene aerial view.

Maui Cultural Initiatives Secure HTA Funding: Partnership Opportunities Emerge

A close-up of a typewriter showcasing 'ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE' on paper.

Hawaii Businesses Can Slash AI Costs: Cheaper Models Now 'Good Enough'

Researchers in lab coats interacting with advanced robotic arm technology.

Hawaii Businesses Using AI Agents Face Critical Governance Gaps: Expect Significant Vendor Shifts and Increased Compliance Costs

Palm trees swaying in strong winds by a stormy ocean seascape.

Hurricane Fausto Threatens 7-14 Day Disruption to Hawaii Business Operations

A MacBook Pro displaying Google Search on a wooden table outdoors, next to a smartphone.

Hawaii Businesses Face Sharp Decline in Online Leads as Google Reorients Traffic

Person typing on a laptop displaying ChatGPT logo with a green vibrant setting.

ChatGPT Desktop Voice Integration: New AI Interaction Methods for Hawaii Service & Tourism Sectors

Stunning aerial view of Honolulu's skyline with lush mountains in the background.

First Hawaiian Bank's Strong Q2 Results Signal Stable Credit Markets for Investors and Businesses

Image of secure outdoor community mailboxes with individual lockers in a row.

Puna Small Businesses Face Operational Delays Due to Severe Mailbox Shortage

People walking near a Chevron gas station with prominent signage and parked vehicles on a sunny day.

Hawaii Businesses Face 5-10% Increase in Transportation Costs as Gas Prices Surge

AI & Technology

See all in AI →
A robotic hand reaching into a digital network on a blue background, symbolizing AI technology.In-Depth

AI Agents Now Pose Existential Threat to Business Security via Over-Privileged Credentials; Fortify Defenses Now

Recent AI security incidents reveal that autonomous agents, not advanced AI, are exploiting basic security flaws like overly broad credentials, posing an immediate risk to sensitive data and…

A close-up of a typewriter showcasing 'ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE' on paper.

Hawaii Businesses Can Slash AI Costs: Cheaper Models Now 'Good Enough'

The AI landscape is shifting towards cost-efficiency, with powerful but less expensive models becoming sufficient for many business needs, potentially reducing operational expenses. This development…

Researchers in lab coats interacting with advanced robotic arm technology.

Hawaii Businesses Using AI Agents Face Critical Governance Gaps: Expect Significant Vendor Shifts and Increased Compliance Costs

A majority of enterprises are knowingly deploying AI agents without adequate governance controls, anticipating significant vendor changes and new compliance investments within the next 12 months.

A MacBook Pro displaying Google Search on a wooden table outdoors, next to a smartphone.

Hawaii Businesses Face Sharp Decline in Online Leads as Google Reorients Traffic

Google's historic data-for-traffic deal with the web is dissolving, meaning a significant drop in organic search traffic for many businesses. Businesses heavily reliant on this digital pipeline must…

Tourism & Hospitality

See all in Tourism →
Peaceful sunset over Kaanapali Beach, Hawaii, with calm waves and serene skies.

Kā‘anapali Beach Erosion Threatens West Maui Tourism Revenue; Immediate Mitigation Actions Advised

Severe erosion at Kā‘anapali Beach poses an imminent threat to West Maui's tourism-dependent economy, potentially impacting visitor arrivals and business operations within weeks. A newly unveiled…

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

Tropical Storm Fausto Portends Operational Disruptions and Increased Costs for Hawaii Businesses

Tropical Storm Fausto's projected path near Hawaii brings a heightened risk of high surf, heavy rain, and strong winds, potentially impacting tourism, agriculture, and retail operations. Businesses…

Side view full length of slim unrecognizable brunette in swimwear sitting in lotus pose and meditating while spending time near peaceful pond in tropical country

Luxury Wellness Expansion at Four Seasons Maui Signals Shifting Visitor Demands

Four Seasons Maui's investment in advanced longevity services, including biomarker testing and IV therapy, indicates a growing high-end wellness tourism segment. Tourism operators and healthcare…

Man paddleboarding in a tropical lagoon in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering a serene aerial view.

Maui Cultural Initiatives Secure HTA Funding: Partnership Opportunities Emerge

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) has awarded nearly $900,000 in grants through its Kūkulu Ola program to 30 cultural organizations statewide, with four on Maui Nui receiving support through the…

Business & Startups

See all in Business →
Palm trees swaying in strong winds by a stormy ocean seascape.

Hurricane Fausto Threatens 7-14 Day Disruption to Hawaii Business Operations

Hurricane Fausto is projected to near the Hawaiian Islands early to mid next week, increasing the risk of wind and rain impacts. Businesses must prepare for potential supply chain disruptions,…

Breathtaking aerial view of downtown Honolulu, Hawaii with skyscrapers and beautiful coastline.

Hawaii Healthcare Providers Face Evolving Market Dynamics Amidst National Dermatology Firm Expansion

A national dermatology firm has expanded its footprint in Hawaii through a strategic partnership, signaling potential shifts in market competition and service availability. Healthcare providers and…

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 →
Aerial shot of beachfront houses surrounded by lush greenery in Kihei, Hawaii.

Maui Property Owners Can Now Build Two ADUs: Assess Infrastructure & Water Constraints Now

Maui County's updated ordinance, effective since July 2026, permits up to two Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on many residential lots, aligning with state law. Real estate owners and investors…

A diverse group evaluates real estate documents outside a residential property in daylight.

Engagement with Hawaii's Top Real Estate Agents Now Crucial for Transactional Success

Hawai‘i Business Magazine's 2026 Top Performers list highlights key agents and firms, influencing future real estate transaction partner selection. Investors and real estate owners should consult…

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…

Finance & Investment

See all in Finance →
Aerial perspective of lush croplands in Santa Maria, California.In-Depth

Maui Agriculture Operators: Secure Capital Access by July 29th Webinar

Maui's farmers and ranchers have a critical, time-sensitive opportunity to explore agricultural financing options through a free webinar on July 29th. Failure to attend could delay crucial capital…

Stunning aerial view of Honolulu's skyline with lush mountains in the background.

First Hawaiian Bank's Strong Q2 Results Signal Stable Credit Markets for Investors and Businesses

First Hawaiian, Inc. (FHB) reported robust financial results for Q2 2026, indicating a healthy banking sector and a stable economic outlook. This stability supports ongoing investment and credit…

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…

Policy & Regulation

See all in Policy →
Spacious and bright kindergarten classroom with child-sized wooden furniture and playful decor.In-Depth

Persistent Childcare Bottlenecks Threaten Hawaii Workforce Stability

The ongoing difficulty in establishing new infant and toddler care facilities across Hawaii's islands is exacerbating workforce shortages, potentially impacting business operations and employee…

A doctor conducting an online consultation with a patient via laptop in a modern office setting.

Hawaii Healthcare Providers Face Shifting Patient Access as Queen's Expands Remote Monitoring

Queen's Health Systems' statewide expansion of its remote patient monitoring program, Ho‘opili Ola, alters healthcare delivery pathways for patients and necessitates strategic adjustments for…

Serene sunset view over Kihei, Hawaii with wind turbines along the coast, capturing nature and renewable energy.

Maui & Big Island Businesses Face Potential Energy Cost Hikes and Reliability Concerns Amidst AG Lawsuit

A lawsuit filed by the Attorney General seeks to force the premature shutdown of HECO's oldest oil burners on Maui and the Big Island, threatening potential increases in energy costs and disruptions…

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

Increased State Contract Scrutiny Looms Following Bribery Indictment

Indictments against Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others in a bribery conspiracy signal a potential ramp-up in oversight for state contracts and fiscal practices. Businesses engaged with or seeking…

Infrastructure & Transportation

See all in Infrastructure →
Image of secure outdoor community mailboxes with individual lockers in a row.

Puna Small Businesses Face Operational Delays Due to Severe Mailbox Shortage

A critical shortage of post office boxes in Puna, Hawaii's fastest-growing region, is causing significant operational disruptions for local businesses. The inability to reliably receive mail and…

People walking near a Chevron gas station with prominent signage and parked vehicles on a sunny day.

Hawaii Businesses Face 5-10% Increase in Transportation Costs as Gas Prices Surge

Global oil market volatility and geopolitical tensions are driving Hawaii's gasoline prices upward, with current trends projecting a 5-10% increase in operating costs for transport-reliant businesses…

Honolulu Water Utility Faces Potential $6M Project Waste; Future Water Costs Uncertain

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS) has authorized the procurement for the Kalaeloa desalination plant, a project critics label as wasteful. This decision signals potential future increases in…

Close-up of a person refueling a car with a gas nozzle at a station.

Hawaii Businesses Face Immediate 5-15% Increase in Shipping and Fuel Costs Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

Escalating Middle East conflict and threats to shipping routes are driving up global oil prices, which will directly translate to higher transportation and operational expenses for Hawaii businesses.…

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.…

Detailed view of a rhinoceros beetle climbing a green plant stem in natural surroundings.In-Depth

Coconut Beetle Threat to Big Island Agriculture Triggers Immediate Business Response Needs

The detection of the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) at Hilo International Airport on July 6 necessitates urgent action to protect Big Island agricultural operations and related businesses.…

Colorful ripe and unripe coffee cherries on a branch, showcasing the vibrant beauty of coffee plants.In-Depth

Kona Coffee Supply Chain at Risk: Water Shortages Threaten Harvests and Revenues

May's earthquake has destroyed water storage tanks for Kona coffee farms, creating an immediate crisis for the high-value crop. This disruption could lead to reduced yields and increased premium…

A beautiful aerial view of lush green terraced farmland fields in a tropical setting.In-Depth

Flood-Affected Farmers Can Access Free Soil Testing to Expedite Recovery

The University of Hawaiʻi's Soil and Plant Diagnostic Service Center has reopened, offering free soil and plant testing specifically for farmers impacted by recent flooding. This immediate support…