Economy

Consumers in the Netherlands will face smaller and pricier fruit this autumn as drought across Europe reduces harvest volumes. Despite good flavour quality from high sugar levels, growers warn of hail damage, water shortages, and crop‑cooling challenges that could make 2026 a financially difficult year for many.

KLM’s quarterly profit has improved, yet the airline says its financial performance is still not strong enough. CEO Marjan Rintel plans to continue cost‑saving measures while demand for cargo and holiday travel remains high. Meanwhile, Air France‑KLM will cut flights later this year due to soaring fuel prices, affecting short‑ and medium‑haul routes across Europe.

Diesel prices climbed above petrol on Friday as Middle East unrest continues to push costs higher. Diesel rose to 2.637 euros per liter, while petrol reached 2.634 euros. Oil prices dipped slightly after Thursday’s surge.

The European Commission says TikTok is again violating the Digital Services Act by failing to protect minors’ accounts and content. Children’s profiles remain easily accessible, and their videos appear on the For You page despite DSA rules.

Schiphol handled fewer flights in early 2026 due to weather disruptions and Middle East air‑traffic restrictions, but passenger numbers per flight increased. Despite a temporary fee discount for airlines, the airport posted higher profit while investing heavily in upgrades.

Signify’s second‑quarter revenue and profit declined, driven by weaker European demand and higher restructuring costs. The company is shifting investment toward smart lighting and consumer products while maintaining its full‑year outlook.

The IMF is urging central banks to reassess financial stability risks posed by AI, warning that synchronized system reactions could trigger market shocks. Regulators must also prepare for AI-driven cyber threats, adds the De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB).

Rotterdam’s port is exporting more empty containers, a sign of growing dependence on Asian imports, says CEO Boudewijn Siemons. Container volumes dipped slightly, while imports from Asia increased by 8 percent.