Business

The Van Eerd family has officially acquired full ownership of HEMA after receiving final regulatory approval for the deal. This move provides the iconic retail chain with a stable foundation as it prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary and pursue new growth strategies.

India is seeking new partnerships to lessen its dependence on China for key minerals used in energy, technology, and manufacturing. The country is holding talks with several nations and plans to expand existing agreements on lithium and rare earth metals. Its efforts mirror similar moves made recently by the US, the EU, and Japan.

Philips has returned to profit for the first time in four years, helped by cost savings and steady sales despite higher US import duties. The company is now focusing on further efficiency gains and greater use of AI in both internal processes and medical products. It expects North America to remain its strongest growth market in the coming year.

Rabobank has reported its second-highest annual profit, despite setting aside more money for potential loan losses linked to global trade tensions. The bank says customers are largely coping well so far, even as it prepares for possible economic disruption. Its strong capital position has opened the door to future growth and acquisitions.

Parents in the Netherlands have reported illnesses in children linked to recalled baby food from Danone and Nestlé. Health authorities are currently investigating these reports and checking additional products for the presence of a toxic substance.

The D66 and CDA have finalised their list of ministers and state secretaries for the new government under Rob Jetten. The appointments bring together experienced civil servants, former parliamentarians, and local leaders to tackle pressing issues like the nitrogen crisis and climate change. With a multi-billion euro fund restored for agriculture and a firm focus on digital sovereignty, the new cabinet is preparing to take office.

The European Commission has escalated its antitrust case against Meta over new WhatsApp rules that block rival AI tools from reaching users. The EU has issued a formal Statement of Objections and is weighing interim measures that could force Meta to reopen access while the investigation continues. The outcome could reshape how major tech platforms are allowed to control access to AI services in Europe.

Tata Steel has reported a sharp increase in quarterly profits, driven by high demand within the Indian market. The company also saw improved results from its Dutch operations despite rising costs and looming changes to European trade regulations.