Business
Business conditions in Dutch industry slightly improved
Industrial activity in the Netherlands picked up slightly in February, with production and business confidence both improving. New orders from abroad fell, but economists expect this decline to be temporary. Rising energy prices and growing defence investments are shaping the outlook for the sector.
Economy
Lower gas consumption at stations, ProRail switches off heating more often
ProRail says gas use at train stations has dropped sharply after changing how and when heating is used. The organisation is now exploring alternatives for the few locations that still need warmth. Survey results suggest passengers have not noticed any decline in comfort.
Economy
Air France-KLM falls on stock market after Middle East unrest, Shell gains
Air France-KLM and other major airlines fell sharply on Monday as the conflict in the Middle East disrupted flights and sent fuel prices soaring. Energy companies, including Shell, benefited from the surge in oil and gas prices. European markets broadly declined as investors reacted to rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainty over how long the crisis may last.
Economy
European gas prices jump after attacks linked to Iran disrupt shipping
European gas prices jumped sharply after military escalation involving Iran disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key LNG route. The surge comes as European gas reserves are already at unusually low levels, increasing concerns about supply ahead of next winter. Market analysts warn prices could rise much further if disruptions persist.
Business
Tax authorities expect busy start to income tax return season
More than 9.6 million people have been invited to file their 2025 income tax return, with the deadline set for 1 May. The Tax and Customs Administration expects heavy traffic on the first day, as happened last year. Support is available online and in person for those who need help completing their return.
Economy
Dutch chip stocks recover as AEX index closes higher
Amsterdam’s main index trended upwards as semiconductor companies found their footing after a volatile reaction to Nvidia’s latest financial update. While major tech players regained some ground, geo-data firm Fugro struggled following a year of offshore project delays. Rising geopolitical tensions also pushed oil prices significantly higher as the trading week drew to a close.
Business
Dissatisfied ASML unions call for a walkout
ASML employees will stage a walk-out on 3 March to protest against the company’s plan to cut 1,700 jobs. Trade unions are organising the action to challenge the necessity of the redundancies and demand better protection for the workforce.
Business
Odido silent on data leak of victims’ data
Odido would not say whether the stolen data contained sensitive information about victims of domestic violence or stalking. “No statements can be made about...
Business
The Netherlands launches testing for Dutch AI model GPT-NL
The Netherlands has begun testing GPT-NL, a home-grown artificial intelligence model built to safeguard digital sovereignty. Backed by a €13.5 million government investment, the project aims to provide a secure alternative to foreign AI platforms for Dutch organisations. By using local news archives and forensic expertise, the model is designed to uphold European values and strict privacy standards.
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Police prioritise investigation into Odido data breach
Dutch police have launched a major investigation after hackers stole the personal data of 6 million Odido customers. Authorities are praising the telecom company's refusal to pay a ransom and are warning the public to stay alert for identity fraud. The case highlights the growing risks of sophisticated phishing attacks following large-scale data breaches.
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Odido refuses to pay ransom while hackers begin leaking customer data
Telecom provider Odido has refused to negotiate with hackers following a massive data breach affecting over six million accounts. Despite threats from the ShinyHunters group to leak sensitive customer details daily, the company is following government advice to reject all ransom demands.