Economy

The Dutch central bank has reported another annual loss, though the figure is much smaller than last year’s deficit. DNB now expects losses to last longer than previously predicted, with no dividend for the state for the time being. The bank says its core tasks and financial buffers remain secure.

Air France has prolonged flight suspensions to several destinations in the Middle East, including Tel Aviv, amid continuing security concerns. KLM has also extended cancellations, citing unsafe airspace and the ongoing conflict in the region.

Airlines using Eindhoven Airport will temporarily move services to Maastricht and Weeze during a major runway renovation next year. Transavia and TUI have already announced how they will adjust their operations. It remains unclear what other major carriers at Eindhoven will do.

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.