Economy

The CEO of VDL Group, Willem van der Leegte, has been named as the newest member of the Eindhoven Airport Supervisory Board. His appointment aims to balance the airport’s role as an international gateway with the social and environmental needs of the surrounding region.

Veldhoven residents are invited to a public meeting on 12 March to explore how the town will heat its buildings in a post-gas era. Independent researchers will present potential energy scenarios for 2050 and gather local feedback for a final report on the town's sustainable future.

Motorists are rushing to petrol stations as fuel prices surge, with some even filling jerrycans. Industry groups warn that hoarding is dangerous and largely pointless, despite fears of further price rises. Queues have formed in some areas, while many drivers are choosing to refuel abroad.

Energy prices are rising fast as war in the Middle East pushes oil above 100 dollars a barrel. The European Commission says EU oil supplies remain secure thanks to large emergency reserves. G7 countries are now discussing whether releasing strategic stocks could ease price pressures.

TenneT has sharply increased its investment in the Dutch and German electricity grid, even as many projects face delays. The operator says new measures should speed up expansion, while several major upgrades were completed ahead of schedule. Additional funding for TenneT Germany is also expected to be finalised in the coming months.

Crop prices are rising as the conflict in Iran disrupts global trade routes and increases demand for biofuels. Higher energy and fertiliser costs are adding pressure on farmers, while some countries may begin stockpiling key staples. Economists warn that the longer the disruption continues, the greater the risk of inflation.

Oil prices have surged to their highest level in more than a year, driven by supply disruptions linked to the US–Israel conflict with Iran. Production in Iraq has dropped sharply, adding pressure to global markets. The rapid rise in both WTI and Brent crude highlights growing concerns about the stability of oil supplies.

TUI has repatriated 250 stranded tourists to Hanover after tensions in the Middle East disrupted air travel. The flights brought travellers from the United Arab Emirates back to Europe, while hundreds of Dutch passengers are still waiting to return home.