Economy

The European Commission is calling on member states to refill gas reserves earlier than usual due to risks linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Although the EU is better prepared than during the 2022 energy crisis, officials say early action could stabilise prices and reduce pressure later in the year. The warning highlights Europe’s continued reliance on gas routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The AEX index started the week lower, continuing Friday’s losses amid fresh tensions in the Middle East. Rising oil and gas prices weighed on markets, while airline stocks came under particular pressure. Flow Traders stood out as one of the few gainers, benefiting from market volatility.

DHL Express workers in the southern Netherlands will strike again on Monday as unions push for a better collective labour agreement. The company expects disruption but says its eCommerce division will operate normally. The dispute centres on pay rises and planned changes to employment conditions.

The Dutch cabinet says new energy-saving measures proposed by the IEA are less urgent for the Netherlands, given steps already taken since the 2022 gas crisis. Still, ministers are closely watching the economic impact of the war in the Middle East. A decision on possible support measures will follow once the scale and duration of price rises are clearer.

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.

United Airlines plans to cut capacity by around 5 percent as soaring fuel prices make some routes unprofitable. The airline is bracing for high oil prices to continue for several years but expects to restore its schedule by autumn. Despite the cuts, United says it will maintain investments and avoid layoffs.

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.

Petrol and diesel prices continue to rise across the country, with the sharpest increases visible along the highways, where recommended rates are typically applied. Fuel remains noticeably cheaper at stations within cities, prompting many drivers to seek out lower prices there. Meanwhile, motorists are increasingly travelling to border towns in Belgium and Germany, where fuel is often significantly more affordable.