Economy

The European Union and the United States are set to sign a preliminary agreement this Friday to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, which are essential for manufacturing products like smartphones and electric car batteries. Aimed at reducing a heavy global reliance on Chinese supplies, the deal between European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to include incentives like minimum price guarantees. By supporting non-Chinese suppliers, the partnership seeks to secure more resilient supply chains for these vital raw materials.

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.