Business

Philips has maintained its position as the top Dutch applicant at the European Patent Office, leading the way in medical technology. The company filed over 1,200 patents in 2025, focusing heavily on AI-driven healthcare solutions and sustainable diagnostic imaging. These innovations are part of a broader goal to improve billions of lives globally by the end of the decade.

ASML employees in Veldhoven have protested against 1,700 planned job cuts worldwide. Despite record financial results, unions and staff remain concerned about how the reorganization will affect job security and product quality. The dispute continues as workers call for management to reconsider the scale of the layoffs and the use of external contractors.

Eindhoven has launched a new sustainable facility to wash reusable cups for businesses and events. The project creates local jobs for people who need support while helping the city reduce its plastic waste.

VDL Groep has seen its profits bounce back despite a challenging year for the high-tech and automotive sectors. With a record-breaking order book and a new focus on the defence industry, the Eindhoven-based giant is preparing for a period of renewed growth.

The war in Iran has caused the largest oil supply disruption in history, prompting the IEA to call for immediate measures: from lower speed limits to reduced air travel. All measures are in view to curb fuel demand as prices continue to surge.

The implementation of the trade deal between the European Union and the United States has moved a step closer. Last summer, the European Commission and the US government agreed that the US would apply a general tariff of 15 percent to most European products. Conversely, there will be no increased tariffs and Brussels itself will scrap tariffs. These proposals still need to be ratified but do a general direction of the trade agreement.

Oil prices have risen further following attacks on key energy facilities in the Middle East. Missiles struck Qatar's main gas production site. At the pump in the Netherlands, recommended prices for petrol and diesel continued to rise above €2.50 for a litre.

German chemical leader BASF has announced price increases of up to 30 per cent for cleaning product ingredients as the conflict in Iran disrupts global supply chains. Rising costs for energy and raw materials are forcing manufacturers to adjust their pricing, which may soon affect the cost of household brands. Other major chemical firms are also reporting similar spikes in the prices of animal feed and industrial rubber.