Hawaii economic growth to slow sharply after summer storms

Sep 28, 2026

Hawaii's economy is expected to barely grow this year after a season of storms, which is bad news for homeowners facing much higher insurance costs.

  • Growth is now forecast at half a percent, down from six times that last year.
  • The state's biggest insurance underwriter raised hurricane premiums by 29% on average, with some jumping 50%.
  • Owners of single-wall homes are being denied renewal altogether, leaving them without coverage.
  • Damage from the storms hits people well beyond those who lost roofs or crops.
  • Oil prices fell on U.N. peace talks, then jumped back after the U.S. rejected a short ceasefire and Iran said it captured an American underwater drone.

Outlook: Insurance costs look set to keep climbing, and oil prices will swing with the Iran standoff.

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