Economy

Major European banks, including Rabobank and ABN AMRO, are planning a euro-backed stablecoin to challenge US dominance in digital currencies. The initiative aims to create a trusted payment standard using blockchain technology. It also reflects broader efforts to strengthen Europe’s position in the digital economy.

Eneco is calling for a balanced division of roles between government and business in the Dutch energy transition. The company warns that expanding state involvement in nuclear power and heat networks could weaken market forces. It argues that clear frameworks and room for private companies are vital for innovation, efficiency and affordable energy.

The Dutch trade union FNV has launched a campaign to protect retail workers from a potential extension of trading hours by the national government. The union warns that proposed changes to the Shop Hours Act could force staff, including delivery drivers and security guards, to work more evenings and weekends.

State Secretary Silvio Erkens has allocated 13.5 million euros to compensate fishermen for the soaring fuel prices triggered by the conflict in Iran, repurposing funds originally intended for European sustainability projects. While the scheme offers relief for rising operating costs incurred since February, it excludes claims for lost revenue from those who stayed in port to avoid high prices. This emergency measure, funded largely by the EU, arrives alongside separate multi-million euro packages aimed at long-term modernisation and support for shrimp, flatfish, and shellfish fishers as the industry navigates a volatile energy market.

The AEX index opened lower on Friday as investors paused to catch their breath following a significant two-day rally. Market sentiment remains cautious as the world awaits concrete details from the summit in Beijing between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Despite Trump’s optimistic talk of "fantastic trade deals" and potential cooperation regarding oil and the Strait of Hormuz, the lack of specific particulars—coupled with rising tensions over Iran—led the Amsterdam benchmark to dip 0.9 per cent to 1,012.60 points in early trading.

Food manufacturers warn that rising costs could push supermarket prices higher in the coming months. They are calling on the Dutch government to limit new taxes and support supply chain stability.

ASML and major Dutch trade unions have reached an agreement on a social plan to support employees during the company’s current transformation. The plan focuses on preventing forced redundancies through internal redeployment, generous severance pay, and extended employment guarantees.

SODA reports a sharp rise in motorists driving away without paying for fuel, linking the trend to higher prices and financial pressure. The organisation says deliberate drive‑offs now form the majority of cases. Fuel prices remain near record levels, although motorists often pay less away from the motorway.