Yen Surge Sets Off Alarm Bells for Hawaiian Businesses

The Japanese yen's recent surge against the US dollar has had local businesses in Hawaii on edge.

Last month, the yen fell to its lowest value against the dollar in 40 years, sparking fears that Japan might be forced to sell some of its dollar assets.

This is unusual because Japan is the largest buyer of U.S. government debt, and selling Treasury securities could have pushed long-term US interest rates higher.

The currency's impact on Hawaii's tourism industry is also being closely watched.