ASB Celebrates 100 Years of Serving Hawaii with $100,000 Donation to Local Nonprofits

February 25, 2025 | 1 MIN read News Releases

Community invited to vote for organizations to receive funding through March 11

To celebrate 100 years of serving Hawaii, American Savings Bank (ASB) is giving back with a $100,000 donation to local nonprofits through the newly launched ASB Charitable Foundation. Ten organizations will each receive $10,000 – and the public is invited to decide the recipients by voting online.

ASB Centennial Celebration Announcing ASB Charitable Foundation

“American Savings Bank is proud to celebrate 100 years of serving Hawaii as a trusted community bank – a milestone few local companies achieve,” said Ann Teranishi, president and CEO at American Savings Bank. “Our centennial is more than a celebration; it’s a reflection of our continued commitment to Hawaii’s people, businesses and communities. Through our support of remarkable nonprofits that drive positive change across the state, we’re making dreams possible and building a brighter future for all.”

ASB teammates helped nominate nearly 30 nonprofits and programs making a difference in areas that align with ASB’s community focus areas of promoting financial education, increasing supply and access to affordable housing and supporting the revitalization of Aala Park and the neighboring communities.

How to Vote

The public is invited to vote daily for a nonprofit that is making a positive impact in Hawaii.

Voting Period: Feb. 25, 11 a.m. HST – March 11, 11:59 p.m.
Voting Limit: One vote per email address per day
Vote Online: asbhawaii.com/vote

The 10 nonprofits with the most votes will each receive $10,000. Winners will be announced in March. To view the full list of participating organizations and vote, visit asbhawaii.com/vote.

Media Contact

Karwin Sui
Communications Manager
(808) 539-7268
ksui@asbhawaii.com

You're In!

Start using your ASB Visa^® Debit Card at any fast food, restaurant or coffee shop to get 5% (up to $100) cash back.*

Get your Cash Back plus Savings!

Use your debit card at any Buy Local Program merchant and get extra discounts! Use our category filters to quickly find fast food, restaurant or coffee shop merchant.

BUY LOCAL MERCHANTS

*Offer is valid from February 15, 2025 to March 14, 2025, when you 1) opt-in to this promotion and 2) make in-store point-of-sale or online purchases (money transfers, ATM withdrawals, peer-to-peer transfers, micro-deposits, and check payments do not qualify as purchases) with your ASB Visa® Debit Card at any Fast Food, Restaurant or Coffee Shop. Valid transactions that are made from a merchant within the U.S. (less returns, chargebacks, reversals etc.) must post and settle to your checking account within the promotion period to receive 5% on all merchants within these categories up to $100 (gift). For online purchases, the posting date may be different from the transaction date. A merchant may seem to fit one of the categories, but may not have a merchant category code (MCC) in that category. Merchants are given a MCC based on the normal products and services that they offer. American Savings Bank (ASB) does not assign MCC to merchants. The cash back will be credited to your checking account by March 28, 2025. Only one gift per card per customer. This offer is valid for the intended recipient and card referenced in the mailer. If the referenced card closes, you will not be eligible for the cash back. Cash back may be considered income and reported to the IRS.

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ASB Awards $135,000 to Aspiring Keiki Entrepreneurs

January 30, 2025 | 3 MIN read News Releases

Annual KeikiCo Business Plan Competition is inspiring and developing the next generation of local business leaders

American Savings Bank (ASB) awarded $135,000 to nine winning student teams as part of its 7th annual Bank for Education KeikiCo Business Plan Competition. Students in grades 3 through 12 submitted business plans for ideas that support Hawaii’s resilience and growth, including sustainable bedding for the homeless and a device that prevents dehydration.

KeikiCo Student Competition

“American Savings Bank is proud to support Hawaii’s youngest entrepreneurs with mentorship and financial education,” said Ann Teranishi, president and CEO at ASB. “Year after year, KeikiCo participants continue to impress us with their creativity, drive and passion for making Hawaii a better place. This year, we saw an inspiring increase in sustainability-driven ideas and community-focused solutions that will help build a stronger, more vibrant future for generations to come.”

Students formed teams of up to five members and crafted business plans and video pitches that were reviewed by judges. First-place teams in the high school, middle school and elementary school divisions won $25,000 each, with each team member receiving up to a $500 individual cash bonus. The public also voted for their favorite teams, with the top three in each division receiving the People’s Choice award and $5,000.

“My students’ first time participating in the KeikiCo contest was 10 years ago, and since then, we’ve won over $35,000 for our school,” said Steve Decker, teacher at Kalakaua Middle School. “The KeikiCo winnings have provided invaluable resources – from college field trips to new sneakers for our track team. American Savings Bank has empowered our students with the skills and knowledge to take their ideas to the next level.”

KeikiCo Student Competition

KeikiCo participants benefit from a comprehensive program, including a video curriculum, online resources and mentorship that cultivate entrepreneurship, marketing and critical thinking skills – key tools for building a successful business in Hawaii.

KeikiCo Contest Winners

Category	Award	School	Team Name
Elementary School
1^st Place	$25,000	Jefferson Elementary	CrayCrayons
2^nd Place	$15,000	Our Lady of Good Counsel	Clutter 2 Charity
People's Choice	$5,000	Manoa Elementary	Hydro Pole
Middle School
1^st Place	$25,000	Highlands Intermediate	Aqua Monitor
2^nd Place	$15,000	Highlands Intermediate	Lotus Journal
People's Choice	$5,000	Kalakaua Middle	J & A Self Defense
High School
1^st Place	$25,000	Punahou School	Recycle the Runway
2^nd Place	$15,000	Nanakuli High	Scrappahz Union 96792
People's Choice	$5,000	Pearl City High	Eco Paws

Elementary School

1^st Place: Jefferson Elementary
- Award: $25,000
- Team Name: CrayCrayons
2^ndPlace: Our Lady of Good Counsel
- Award: $15,000
- Team Name: Clutter 2 Charity
People's Choice: Manoa Elementary
- Award: $5,000
- Team Name: Hydro Pole

Middle School

1^st Place: Highlands Intermediate
- Award: $25,000
- Team Name: Aqua Monitor
2^ndPlace: Highlands Intermediate
- Award: $15,000
- Team Name: Lotus Journal
People's Choice: Kalakaua Middle
- Award: $5,000
- Team Name: Hydro Pole

High School

1^st Place: Punahou School
- Award: $25,000
- Team Name: Recycle the Runway
2^ndPlace: Nanakuli High
- Award: $15,000
- Team Name: Scrappahz Union 96792
People's Choice: Manoa Elementary
- Award: $5,000
- Team Name: Eco Paws

The KeikiCo Contest is a cornerstone of ASB’s Bank for Education program, which has contributed over $1.9 million to Hawaii’s schools since 2010.

Media Contact

Karwin Sui
Communications Manager
(808) 539-7268
ksui@asbhawaii.com

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Building a Stronger Hawaii: Hui Kapili Business Accelerator Announces Applications for Second Cohort Following Successful First-Year

January 27, 2025 | 3 MIN read News Releases

aio and American Savings Bank (ASB) are pleased to announce the start of the second cohort for the Hui Kapili Accelerator, following incredible success from the first cohort. By nurturing leaders and arming them with tools to support the construction growth slated for the next 20 years, Hui Kapili aims to empower construction-related companies with the business acumen, tools and resources needed to succeed in Hawaii’s competitive market.

With more than half of construction businesses failing within the first 10 years, the Hui Kapili program is designed to support Hawaii’s construction industry and ultimately help their long-term success. Applications are open until Feb. 14 for small- to mid-sized construction-related companies.

“American Savings Bank is proud to once again team up with aio and Hawaii Home + Remodeling to support the growth of local businesses in Hawaii’s construction industry,” said Tony Mizuno, EVP of Commercial Markets at American Savings Bank. “The success of the first Hui Kapili Accelerator cohort shows how this program is helping local talent grow and contribute to improving infrastructure while advancing affordable housing opportunities for our community.”

The sessions will kick off in late March and conclude in early June. Session topics will include strategic business planning and development, financial management and budget optimization, marketing and lead generation, effective workforce management and development, community engagement and social responsibility. ASB and Hawaii Home + Remodeling, an aio family of companies, will facilitate the sessions and invite subject matter experts, and construction industry veterans to present, inspire and educate. Cohort members will also receive a personalized financial consultation with a senior ASB leader to assess their business and identify ways to scale up their operations.

"We were thrilled by the success and impact of the program with our first cohort, which made us even more excited to launch cohort two in partnership with ASB and our publication Hawaii Home + Remodeling,” said Brandon Kurisu, aio Chief Operating Officer. “Small- to mid-sized businesses are the backbone of our economy, and the Hui Kapili Accelerator program is designed to help these businesses succeed and thrive. By providing tools, resources, and opportunities to connect within their industries, we aim to support their growth and long-term success."

In the fall of 2024, 10 businesses completed the inaugural Hui Kapili Accelerator Program, which included home builders and renovations, pool and spa specialists, interior and countertops, and more. The diverse group also included Native Hawaiian and women-owned businesses from three counties across the state. The cohort members also heard from esteemed companies in the building industry, such as Stanford Carr Development, Albert C. Kobayashi and Nan, Inc.

“The Hui Kapili Accelerator program was an incredible experience for me and my business,” said Tiffanie Gardner, Top Priority, Inc. and cohort one member. “The speakers and sessions were tailored to the construction industry making this cohort unique to others out there. The networking and opportunities were also incredibly helpful for us to take our business to the next level.”

The cohort will be selected in early March. In lieu of a program fee, participants will engage in a meaningful community project to make Hawaii stronger and more resilient for future generations.

Interested applicants can go to huikapili.com to apply or find more details about the program and requirements.

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ASB Celebrates 100 Years of Serving Hawaii’s Residents, Businesses and Communities

January 08, 2025 | 2 MINS read News Releases

Centennial celebration kicks off with announcement of new ASB Charitable Foundation’s $100,000 pledge to local nonprofits.

American Savings Bank (ASB) marked its 100^th year serving Hawaii with a special event at ASB Campus, located in Downtown Honolulu. At the event, ASB commemorated the special 100-year milestone by announcing its new ASB Charitable Foundation and a $100,000 donation to local nonprofits, reaffirming its commitment to bring real impact to the community.

100 year ceremony

“American Savings Bank has proudly made dreams possible for Hawaii’s residents, businesses and communities since 1925, and we are grateful to our loyal customers, teammates and partners across the state who have been a part of this amazing journey,” said Ann Teranishi, president and CEO of American Savings Bank. “The launch of the ASB Charitable Foundation reinforces our ongoing commitment to building a brighter future for Hawaii for the next 100 years and beyond.”

Joining ASB’s centennial celebration were Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, who both presented proclamations honoring ASB’s 100 years of service to Hawaii’s residents. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam, representing the Chinatown-Kalihi-Palama areas, also participated in the festivities.

To commemorate ASB’s 100^th anniversary, the ASB Charitable Foundation will donate $100,000 to local nonprofits aligned with ASB’s community impact areas including financial wellness, increasing access to affordable housing, and supporting Aala Park and its neighboring communities.

ASB Community Foundation

Starting in February, the public will be invited to help select the 10 nonprofits that will receive $10,000 awards.

For more information about updates and celebrations throughout the year or to explore ASB’s stories, please visit asbhawaii.com/100.

Media Contact

Karwin Sui
Communications Manager
(808) 539-7268
ksui@asbhawaii.com

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American Savings Bank Welcomes New Investors

December 31, 2024 | 2 MINS read News Releases

Bank will continue to operate independently and serve Hawaii’s residents and businesses; no impact to customers, employees or branches.

American Savings Bank (ASB) today announced that independent investors (the “Investors”) in separate transactions have acquired non-controlling interests in ASB from Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (“HEI”). ASB’s executive team and independent directors are included among the investors. HEI retained a 9.9% non-controlling interest in ASB’s common stock, allowing the company to continue to participate in the bank’s future growth. No investor holds greater than 9.9% of the common stock of ASB. The sale of common stock closed Dec. 31, 2024.

ASB will continue to operate independently under its existing name and brand. There will be no changes to its branches or employees related to this new ownership structure. The current executive leadership team will remain in place, with Ann Teranishi continuing to serve as president and chief executive officer.

As Hawaii’s third largest bank with $9.3 billion in total assets, ASB will continue providing its full range of banking and financial services to the Hawaii community, as it has since 1925. Customers can continue to bank as usual through ASB’s existing branch and ATM network, as well as its online and mobile banking services.

“This marks an exciting new milestone in ASB’s 100-year history,” said Ann Teranishi, president and chief executive officer of ASB. “Our new shareholders recognize and value our deep roots in the community, dedication to helping our loyal customer base achieve their financial goals, and enduring commitment to serving Hawaii’s residents and businesses. Everything our customers, communities and teammates love about ASB will remain the same, and we expect this new ownership structure to provide us with greater flexibility and capacity to invest in our community.”

ASB has generated strong net income and profitability while continuing net interest margin expansion throughout 2024. As of the quarter ending September 30, 2024, ASB maintained a strong capital position, excellent credit quality, lending capacity, and ample liquidity.

ASB has consistently been recognized for its performance, workplace culture, and community impact, including being named one of America’s Best-In-State Banks by Forbes Magazine for the fifth year.

“We are pleased to welcome our new shareholders whose investment reflects their confidence in ASB’s ability and commitment to continue serving Hawaii,” said Richard Dahl, chair of the ASB board of directors. “We look forward to this new chapter as we drive toward delivering exceptional value for all our stakeholders.”

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP served as ASB’s legal advisor in connection with the transactions.

MEDIA CONTACT
Shara Aiu, American Savings Bank
syaiu@asbhawaii.com

Brian Yoshii

Chief Information Officer

Brian Yoshii is the Chief Information Officer at American Savings Bank (ASB) responsible for leading the Technology Infrastructure, Governance, Banking and Data Systems, Architecture, and Development teams.

Throughout his nearly 40-year career, Brian has held executive-level positions in various industries at some of Hawaii’s largest organizations, including Kaiser Permanente, First Hawaiian Bank, and The Queen’s Health Systems, where, just prior to joining ASB, he was Vice President and Chief Information Officer.

Brian’s experience includes developing and maintaining an integrated Information Technology strategy and systems roadmap, improving critical system availability and internal customer satisfaction scores, and successfully leading the transition of healthcare IT from a paper-based environment to digitization.

Brian is passionate about serving and supporting youth in the community. He previously served on the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii board of directors and coached hundreds of local kids in baseball and judo.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Information and Computer Science from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He is a graduate of the BAI Graduate School of Bank Operations and Technology at Vanderbilt University. During his time with Kaiser Permanente, he was one of 48 leaders chosen from across the nation to participate in the company’s Advanced Leadership Program at the Kenan-Flagler School of Business at the University of North Carolina.

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Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Tips to Avoid Common Holiday Scams

December 06, 2024 | 3 MINS read Personal

Information below is provided by the Hawaii Bankers Association

The holiday season is a time for giving, celebration, and togetherness – but unfortunately, it’s also a time when scammers are on the prowl. The Hawaii Bankers Association (HBA) is here to help you protect yourself from common holiday fraud schemes so you can enjoy the season without worry.

Here are six top scams to watch out for this holiday season and tips to safeguard your finances and personal information:

Fake Charity Scams

During the season of giving, scammers often exploit people’s generosity by creating fake charities. These fraudulent organizations can be incredibly convincing, using lookalike names and websites that mimic legitimate charities. Here’s how to stay safe:

Verify the charity by checking its name and URL carefully.
Use trusted websites like Charity Navigator to confirm legitimacy.
Remember, legitimate charities will never pressure you or use hard sell tactics.

Person holding credit card in front of computer

Gift Card Scams

Scammers love gift cards because they’re difficult to trace and nearly impossible to refund. Common tactics include asking victims to pay with gift cards or selling “discounted” cards that turn out to be empty. Here’s how to stay safe:

Never provide the numbers on the back of a gift card to anyone.
Avoid buying gift cards from unknown third-party sellers.
If someone demands payment via gift card, it’s likely a scam.

Seasonal Job Scams

With many people looking for extra income during the holidays, scammers often post fake job listings promising high pay for minimal work. Once you apply, they may request personal information or upfront payments for supplies or training. Here’s how to stay safe:

Research the company and the person you’re communicating with before sharing personal details.
Avoid any job opportunity that asks for money upfront.
Use reputable job boards and company websites to apply for seasonal positions.

Fake Delivery Notifications

Holiday shoppers eagerly waiting for packages may fall victim to fraudulent delivery notifications. Scammers send fake texts or emails with links that lead to phishing websites designed to steal your personal information or payment details. Here’s how to stay safe:

Never click on links from unsolicited delivery notifications.
Check delivery statuses directly on the official websites of delivery companies like UPS, FedEx, or USPS.
Be cautious of unexpected messages about deliveries you don’t recall ordering.

Too-Good-to-Be-True Prices

Scammers often advertise designer goods or other high-value items at unbelievably low prices. Once you make the purchase, you may receive a counterfeit product – or worse, nothing at all. Here’s how to stay safe:

Stick to reputable retailers and well-known marketplaces.
Remember: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Holiday Travel Scams

Planning a holiday getaway? Be wary of deals on airfare or travel packages from unfamiliar websites. Fraudulent travel sites may trick you into booking a flight that doesn’t exist. Here’s how to stay safe:

Book flights directly through airline websites or reputable travel agencies.
Verify the website’s legitimacy by checking reviews and customer support policies.
Avoid deals that require immediate payment without proper verification.

Take Action If You’re a Victim

If you’ve encountered a scam this holiday season, act quickly:
- Report it: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Contact your bank or payment provider: They may help reverse the transaction or secure your account.

You're In!

Start using your ASB Visa^® Debit Card at fast food, restaurants or coffee shops to earn up to $100 cash back.*

5% cash back on any Buy Local merchant in these categories or
3% cash back on all other merchants within these categories

Participating Buy Local Program merchants by island: Oahu | Maui | Hawaii Island | Kauai

*Offer valid from December 1 – 31, 2024 (promotion period), when you 1) opt-in to this promotion and 2) make in-store point-of-sale or online purchases (money transfers, ATM withdrawals, peer-to-peer transfers, micro-deposits, and check payments do not qualify as purchases) with your ASB Visa^® Debit Card at any fast food, restaurant or coffee shop. Valid transactions that are made from a merchant within the U.S. (less returns, chargebacks, reversals etc.) must post and settle to your checking account within the promotion period to receive 5% cash back on Buy Local merchants who fall within one of the categories or 3% on all other merchants within these categories up to $100 (gift). For online purchases, the posting date may be different from the transaction date. A merchant may seem to fit one of the categories, but may not have a merchant category code (MCC) in that category. Merchants are given a MCC based on the normal products and services that they offer. American Savings Bank (ASB) does not assign MCC to merchants. The cash back will be credited to your checking account by January 10, 2025. Only one gift per card per customer. This offer is valid for the intended recipient and card referenced in the email. If the referenced card closes, you will not be eligible for the cash back. Cash back may be considered income and reported to the IRS.

Oahu

Maui

Hawaii Island

Kauai

**Entire purchase must be paid for using an ASB Visa debit card. Minimum purchase amount is after any other promotional offer allowed by the merchant is applied and before taxes and tip. Limit of one offer per visit. Offer does not apply to prior purchases. Discounts on gift cards or certificates as well as other promotional discounts and offers are at the merchant’s sole discretion. Free or discounted item eligible while supplies last. Offers are subject to change without notice. Visit asbhawaii.com/BuyLocal or our Facebook or Instagram pages to see which other businesses have offers and for details.

***Akira Japanese Restaurant honors multiple offers with qualifying purchases.

Text Display: To provide an optimal viewing experience, we refrained from using diacritical marks on this webpage.

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Keiki Street Festival

Unlock Exclusive Perks with your ASB Visa® Debit or Credit Card

We’re celebrating ASB’s 100th Birthday at the Keiki Street Festival!

Eat, Drink and Get Your Savings!

Drincup

Fig and Ginger

HanaPaa Market

Hawaiian Pie Company

Hokulani Bakeshop

Jay's Sushi

Kapa Hale

Sage Creamery

Sweet Revenge

Teapresso

ASB Celebrates 100 Years of Serving Hawaii with $100,000 Donation to Local Nonprofits

By

How to Vote

Media Contact

You're In!

Start using your ASB Visa® Debit Card at any fast food, restaurant or coffee shop to get 5% (up to $100) cash back.*

Get your Cash Back plus Savings!

ASB Awards $135,000 to Aspiring Keiki Entrepreneurs

By

KeikiCo Contest Winners

Elementary School

Middle School

High School

Media Contact

Building a Stronger Hawaii: Hui Kapili Business Accelerator Announces Applications for Second Cohort Following Successful First-Year

By

ASB Celebrates 100 Years of Serving Hawaii’s Residents, Businesses and Communities

By

Media Contact

American Savings Bank Welcomes New Investors

By

Brian Yoshii

Chief Information Officer

Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Tips to Avoid Common Holiday Scams

By

Fake Charity Scams

Gift Card Scams

Seasonal Job Scams

Fake Delivery Notifications

Too-Good-to-Be-True Prices

Holiday Travel Scams

Take Action If You’re a Victim

You're In!

Start using your ASB Visa® Debit Card at fast food, restaurants or coffee shops to earn up to $100 cash back.*

Oahu

Akira Japanese Restaurant

Alii Coffee

Aoki Teppanyaki

Banzai Sushi

Blue Tree

Brick Fire Tavern

Brick Oven Pizza

Burgers on Bishop

Cafe Julia

Cafe Villamor

Catania Risorante Italiano

Chubbies Burgers

Doraku

Drincup Cafe

Fig & Ginger

Hanapaa Market

Herringbone

Honolulu Burger Company

Honolulu Sushi

Honolulu Tacos

It's Tea Hawaii

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Japanese BBQ Yoshi

Jay's Sushi

Juicy Brew

Kapa Hale

Kupu Food Truck

Unlock Exclusive Perks with your ASB Visa^® Debit or Credit Card

Start using your ASB Visa^® Debit Card at any fast food, restaurant or coffee shop to get 5% (up to $100) cash back.*

Start using your ASB Visa^® Debit Card at fast food, restaurants or coffee shops to earn up to $100 cash back.*

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Since 2018