Airlines pull Boeing Max jets to inspect electrical systems
Airlines pulled dozens of Boeing Max 737s out of service for inspections after the aircraft maker told them about a possible electrical problem, the latest setback for the plane.
America’s top residential solar company moving into battery storage
Residential solar looked like a generational opportunity to Lynn Jurich back when few American homeowners had panel systems. The cost of solar equipment would fall, she surmised, and utility bills would rise. The economic case for going green would become clear.
Business faces tricky path navigating post-Trump politics
WASHINGTON — For more than a half-century, the voice emerging from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s monolithic, Beaux Arts-styled building near the White House was predictable: It was the embodiment of American business and, more specifically, a shared set of interests with the Republican Party.
In brief: April 5, 2021
Hawaiian Electric transitioning fleet to zero-emissions
New Malama Market Pahoa opens
Rock Steady Boxing for people with Parkinson’s comes to Kona
Rock Steady Boxing, a unique exercise program, based on training used by boxing pros, and adapted to people with Parkinson’s disease, will now be available in the Kona area. The program involves intense exercises, such as stretching, running, jump-roping, push-ups, balancing and lots of non-contact boxing, led by experienced trainers/coaches. Rock Steady Boxing serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability.
Business in brief: 03-29-21
Walmart announces annual Open Call
USDA targets more farmers with new $12 billion COVID aid round
The Biden administration announced $12 billion in new farm aid, and said it will seek to expand COVID assistance to producers that weren’t covered under the Trump administration’s pandemic relief programs.
What is a vaccine passport and will you need one to travel?
When travelers venture back out, many — especially those flying overseas — will need to manage new requirements to prove they’ve tested negative for COVID-19 or received a vaccine.
Hilo Seaside Hotel under new ownership
US economy set for epic hiring spree as services jobs return
The U.S. economy is set for a hiring boom in the months ahead as the coronavirus pandemic recedes. There are signs it’s already underway.
SUPPLIER SHORTAGES CAUSE AUTO PRODUCTION DISRUPTION
Severe weather, port blockages and microchip shortages are wreaking havoc on U.S. auto production with Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. now facing disruptions.
The SBA: A financing workhorse for small business
In my mind, one of the institutional heroes of our attempt to claw our way out of the pandemic economy has been the Small Business Administration. Although sometimes, deservedly, criticized for bottlenecks or administrative course changes during this crisis, we need to keep in mind the scope of the work this agency took on and the rate at which it moved to come up to speed. It’s an over-used analogy, but there isn’t a better one: in the last year, the SBA truly has been drinking out of a fire hose, a fire hose of funding.
A dream come true: Kona residents open spa in Kailua Village
Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima is now open, offering massages, facials, and face waxing and tinting in Kailua-Kona.
US mortgage rates rise above 3% for first time since July
Mortgage rates rose above 3% for the first time in seven months, raising concerns that higher borrowing costs will derail the pandemic housing rally.
US job growth surges past estimates; unemployment dips to 6.2%
U.S. employers added more jobs than forecast in February and the unemployment rate declined, suggesting the labor market is clawing its way forward again following several disappointing months.
Amazon’s telehealth arm quietly expands to 21 more states, including Hawaii
An Amazon telehealth outfit that started as a pilot service for Seattle-area employees and their families has quietly filed paperwork to operate in 21 more states, a signal of Amazon’s expanding ambitions for the $3.8 trillion medical sector.
Never too late: Pandemic propels older shoppers online
NEW YORK — In November, Paula Mont did something new: The 86-year-old, who hasn’t left her New Jersey senior living community in nearly a year, went shopping — online.
Soaring US incomes help drive biggest spending gain since June
U.S. personal incomes soared in January as Americans received another round of pandemic-relief checks, helping to re-charge the economy with the strongest spending advance in seven months.
Bill to lower employer tax burdens sent to governor
HONOLULU — A bill that would provide unemployment insurance relief for Hawaii employers is now on Democratic Gov. David Ige’s desk for approval.
