Economy

Pension funds ABP and PME weathered a turbulent first quarter due to Middle East unrest, with slightly weaker funding ratios but still solid buffers that keep pension increases in sight under the new system.

ING expects the eurozone’s trade surplus to fall sharply this year because of the Middle East war and rising competition from China, with the bloc at risk of a sizeable trade deficit in 2026.

ASML is joining forces with major European tech companies to push for stronger EU semiconductor policies, warning that Europe’s limited share of its sales is a “huge red flag.”

ABN AMRO has cut its growth outlook for the Dutch do‑it‑yourself sector to 2 percent in 2026, down from 3 percent, as the Iran war, higher inflation, and weaker consumer confidence weigh on home‑improvement spending. More homeowners are taking on small repairs themselves, while rising costs and online competition squeeze margins at DIY chains like Hornbach, Gamma, Karwei, and Praxis.

Owner‑occupied homes in the Netherlands were 5 percent more expensive in March than a year earlier, marking a further easing of price growth. Average prices now exceed €494,600, while sales volumes rose sharply compared to last year.

Geldmaat is testing the introduction of 100‑euro banknotes in 46 ATMs across major Dutch cities. The six‑month trial, launched with De Nederlandsche Bank, aims to assess demand for higher denominations amid rising inflation.

Employers warn they may not raise travel allowances even if the cabinet increases the tax‑free mileage rate. AWVN says higher reimbursements could reduce wage margins and advises companies to assess who truly needs the increase. Business travel is more likely to receive higher compensation than daily commuting.

BOVAG chair Christianne van der Wal says targeted energy support would be more effective than cutting fuel taxes. She argues that broad tax reductions are costly and limited in impact, while focused measures could better support households and businesses facing rising costs.