The level of confidence amongst Welsh firms is lower than for the UK as a whole.
15:22, 05 Mar 2026Updated 15:23, 05 Mar 2026
(Image: PA)
Business confidence in Wales fell in February according to the latest business barometer from Lloyds.
Companies in Wales reported lower confidence in their own business prospects month-on-month, down three points at 35%. When taken alongside their optimism in the economy, down five points to 22%, this gives a headline confidence reading of 29% ( compared to 32% in January). Anything above a zero reading is positive and anything below negative.
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Looking ahead to the next six months, Welsh businesses identified their top target areas for growth as investing in their team, for example through training (71%), evolving their offering, for instance by introducing new products or services (52%) and entering new markets (29%).
For the UK as a whole business confidence was unchanged since January at 44%.
Firms’ confidence in their own trading prospects fell six points to 53%, but their optimism in the wider economy rose eight points to 36%.
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London was the most confident UK nation or region in February (59%), followed by the north east (58%) and Northern Ireland (58%).
The construction sector saw strong gains in overall confidence. In February, confidence was up 14 points to 60%, with manufacturing also seeing a boost, up five points to 37%. Confidence for retail and service sector firms softened slightly, each down two and three points respectively.
Nathan Morgan, area director for Wales at Lloyds, said: “While business confidence dipped this month, we know Welsh businesses are continuing to press ahead with their growth strategies.
“Whether their plans are to upskill their teams, enter new markets or diversify product and service offerings, we’ll continue to be ready to provide our support.”
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Hann-Ju Ho, senior economist, Lloyds Commercial Banking, said: “It’s encouraging to see optimism in the wider economy returning, although with a small reduction in firms’ confidence in their own trading prospects. The majority of the survey results were collected following the Bank of England’s close decision to hold interest rates at its February meeting, signalling potential easing ahead, which may have alleviated business concerns, including those around cost pressures. While the rise in pricing expectations to a six month high may indicate firms are looking to rebuild their margins in 2026.
“It’s also great to see confidence increase for manufacturers and construction firms as they are key for UK growth.”
However, despite the overall slump, six stocks bucked the trend, delivering gains in the range of 20–105% over the same period. We also highlighted three newly added stocks in the December 2025 quarter, including Inox, WeWork Management, and Midwest. (Data Source: ACE Equity, Trendlyne)
HONOLULU — Travelers inquiring about TSA wait times at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) on Saturday, March 28, 2026, should anticipate standard security screening times averaging 20 to 35 minutes for most of the day, with peaks reaching up to 40 minutes during traditional morning and afternoon rushes, according to multiple real-time trackers.
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
As Hawaii’s primary international gateway and a key tourism hub, HNL continues to manage elevated passenger volumes during the ongoing spring break season, compounded by recent weather-related disruptions that have strained operations in recent weeks. While not experiencing the multi-hour delays reported at some mainland airports amid broader TSA challenges, officials recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and 150 to 180 minutes for international departures to account for check-in, bag drop and potential lines.
Live data from trackers such as Takeoff Timer, FlightQueue and OnAirParking showed standard security waits fluctuating between 21 and 35 minutes as of Saturday morning into early afternoon, with TSA PreCheck lanes clearing significantly faster, often in 5 to 11 minutes. Some reports indicated shorter lulls dropping to under 10 minutes midday, while early morning hours between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. saw the day’s highest estimates around 37 to 41 minutes. Afternoon surges around 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. also trended higher in historical patterns.
The airport’s main checkpoints in Terminal 1, including CP 1B (Makai) and CP 3, operate from approximately 4:15 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., with dedicated TSA PreCheck available during core hours. Additional checkpoints open as needed to handle demand. Some lanes at certain checkpoints have been reported closed or limited, contributing to variable flows on busy days.
Hawaii’s Department of Transportation (HDOT) has highlighted two major daily checkpoint surges at HNL: around 6 a.m. and between 9 a.m. and noon, with a smaller bump in the early evening around 7 p.m. On peak spring travel days, waits have occasionally stretched toward 90 minutes or more during these windows, though Saturday’s conditions appeared more moderate based on current reports. Inter-island and mainland departures remain the heaviest traffic drivers.
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Recent severe weather systems, including heavy rain and strong winds, have added pressure through flight delays and cancellations earlier in March, indirectly affecting security line predictability as passengers reschedule or adjust plans. Spring break demand has pushed U.S. airlines toward record volumes nationwide, with Hawaii remaining a popular destination for families and leisure travelers seeking sunshine and beaches.
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR members benefit substantially at HNL, with expedited lanes providing a noticeable advantage during busier periods. Enrollment in these programs is particularly recommended for frequent visitors to the islands. Mobile Passport Control is encouraged for eligible international arrivals to help expedite customs and border processing, which has averaged around 40 to 42 minutes in recent reports.
The MyTSA app remains one of the best tools for crowd-sourced, real-time updates from fellow travelers, though users should cross-reference with third-party sites like Takeoff Timer or the airport’s official resources. HDOT and airport operators urge checking conditions 30 to 60 minutes before heading to the terminal, as flows can shift with flight banks or unexpected events.
Amenities at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport help ease the experience for those with extra time. The open-air design features Hawaiian cultural elements, local dining options ranging from poke bowls and plate lunches to coffee shops, and shopping highlighting island artisans. Free Wi-Fi, charging stations and family areas are available post-security. The airport’s compact layout makes gate access relatively straightforward once through screening.
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Broader TSA operations have faced nationwide scrutiny in March 2026 due to staffing pressures linked to a partial government shutdown affecting federal agencies. While HNL has not reported the extreme multi-hour lines seen at some continental U.S. hubs, the situation underscores the importance of preparation. TSA officers at busy airports have dealt with higher call-out rates, leading to adjusted lane openings.
For departing passengers today, early morning and midday flights warrant the most conservative arrival planning. Those with flights before 10 a.m. or during afternoon peaks should factor in potential 30-plus minute security times plus standard check-in and bag drop. International travelers, especially on long-haul routes, benefit from even earlier arrival to navigate any immigration or customs nuances on return legs.
Airport officials emphasize that supply remains stable and operations are prioritized for safety and efficiency. No widespread staffing shortages unique to HNL were highlighted in recent advisories, though general spring travel volume has increased strain across Hawaii’s airports, including Kahului on Maui.
Practical tips for smoother passage through HNL security include preparing for the 3-1-1 liquids rule, wearing easily removable shoes, and having ID and boarding passes readily accessible on a mobile device or in hand. Prohibited items can trigger secondary screening and extend wait times. Families with children or travelers needing assistance can request accommodations through TSA Cares in advance.
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As spring break continues into early April, passenger numbers are expected to remain robust before tapering. The airport’s role as a major transpacific hub means it handles diverse traffic, from leisure tourists to business travelers and military personnel, all contributing to daily rhythms.
Looking ahead, infrastructure improvements and potential staffing adjustments could help stabilize flows in coming months. For now, the message from HDOT and TSA is consistent: build in buffer time, monitor real-time tools and practice patience amid the aloha spirit that defines Hawaii travel.
In summary, TSA wait times at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Saturday, March 28, 2026, are running in the moderate 20- to 35-minute range for standard screening, with PreCheck offering quicker options. While conditions are manageable compared to recent national peaks, spring travel volume and occasional weather echoes make early arrival the smartest strategy.
Travelers can stay updated via the MyTSA app, official airport website (airports.hawaii.gov/hnl), or trackers like FlightQueue and Takeoff Timer. Safe travels to all departing from or arriving at Honolulu today — and enjoy the islands’ beauty once through the checkpoint.
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It’s a tough time for any young person looking for a job at the moment. While overall unemployment is running at just over 5 percent, there’s particular concern about a large group of 16 to 24 year olds – almost a million of them (12.8%) who are not in employment, education or training. And that includes recent graduates in that age bracket. They’re known as NEETS. David Aaronovitch and guests discuss why they’re in this situation – is it down to the state of the economy, their own ability to work or that ever present fear – AI?
Guests:
Jack Kennedy, Senior Economist, Indeed Hiring Lab
Lindsay Judge, Research Director, The Resolution Foundation
Xiaowei Xu, Senior Research Economist, Institute for Fiscal Studies.
John Burn-Murdoch, Chief Data Reporter, The Financial Times
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Presenter: David Aaronovitch
Producers: Caroline Bayley, Nathan Gower, Kirsteen Knight
Production Co-ordinator: Maria Ogundele
Sound Engineer: James Beard
Editor: Richard Vadon
Financial markets have fully abandoned bets on rate cuts from the Federal Reserve this year, with the war in the Middle East set to drive up inflation.
Derivatives markets show zero odds of a rate cut this year, down from 1.3% on Thursday, according to CME Group data. Markets are pricing a 54% chance of at least one hike.
The energy price shock unleashed by the conflict has dramatically altered the outlook for central banks around the world, which now face both higher inflation and slower growth. As disruptions to energy markets grow, so do the risks that inflation pressure spill over into broader price pressures.
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