Out-of-state banks continue targeting Florida
Forty years after new laws first allowed out-of-state banks to enter Florida, the state continues to be a target for expansion. At an investor conference last month, Regions Financial Corp. CEO John Turner said the bank may add 16 to 20 branches in Florida as part of a plan to grow by 135 to 150 offices over the next five years. Although many customers do their banking online, Turner believes brick-and-mortar offices are important. More from the Jacksonville Daily Record.
FAA eyes safety changes amid surge in Florida space launches
The space business is booming on Florida’s Space Coast. Brevard County experienced a record-breaking 109 space launches in 2025, leading transportation officials to evaluate how the increased mission frequency affects commercial aviation safety. Of the 109 launches recorded in 2025, SpaceX conducted 101 missions. United Launch Alliance completed six launches and Blue Origin conducted two. The surge in launches has prompted a closer look at the balance between rocket missions and traditional commercial flights. More from WFTV.
Why biohacking is big business in South Florida
When Jay Roberts talks about his health, he doesn’t start with a doctor’s visit – he leads with data. Roberts tracks his health through biometric markers and follows a routine that includes intermittent fasting – sometimes up to 80 hours – 20 daily supplements and performance-driven routines such as CrossFit and meditation. His approach highlights how what was once considered niche is becoming a defining feature of how high-performing male professionals approach both life and business – especially in South Florida. More from the South Florida Business Journal.
Hotel and culinary school proposed for downtown Jacksonville riverfront
A riverfront development featuring a culinary school is proposed for the old county courthouse site in Jacksonville. The school, code-named Project Caymus, strongly resembles the Culinary Institute of America. The $160 million project would include two buildings with a hotel, conference space, restaurants, and retail. Developers are seeking city incentives, including free land and property tax rebates, to finance the project. More from the Florida Times-Union.
Sanibel approves density increase for workforce housing
Sanibel officials approved a rare increase in density for a multifamily housing project, an exception made to increase the city’s stock of workforce housing. Council members debated the plan for more than six hours March 31 before casting their votes. The discussion reflected challenges many Florida communities face as they seek to develop affordable housing, often requiring complex financing structures involving public investment, grants, loans and higher-density construction. More from the Gulfshore Business.
Event
Guy Fieri wants to meet you in Tampa
You’ve seen Guy Fieri on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and “Guy’s Grocery Games.” Now you can meet him in Tampa. Fieri is bringing the spirit of Flavortown to Cigar City by slinging his own line of spirits. Fieri — an author, restauranteur and Food Network’s most meme-able celebrity chef — will sign bottles of his Santo Tequila at Luekens Wine & Spirits on Wednesday, April 8.
» More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Florida Trend Exclusive
Ready to reboot
As business education evolves alongside shifting workforce demands, the University of Miami's Miami Herbert Business School is reshaping its MBA portfolio for fall 2026. "What students want from an MBA is changing and fall 2026 reflects how we're adapting to that reality," says Indraneel Chakraborty, associate dean of graduate business programs, department chair and professor of finance. "We're focused on programs that offer flexibility, clear skill signaling and strong career outcomes while preserving the rigor of a Miami Herbert MBA."
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