Health
Tongelreep swimming complex to open in March
The final section of the Tongelreep swimming complex will open to the public this March, adding extensive recreational facilities to the site. The expansion confirms the centre's status as one of the world's largest indoor swimming venues for both fun and professional sport.
Business
Parliament approves new tax system for savings and investments
The Dutch House of Representatives has passed a major reform to the wealth tax system, with actual asset growth set to be taxed from 2028. The move follows years of legal challenges against the previous method of taxing assumed profits. However, further changes are already being requested to ensure that investors only pay tax when they sell their assets.
Business
Odido data breach exposes personal information of six million customers.
A major cyber attack on Dutch telecom provider Odido has exposed the personal details of 6.2 million account holders. The company has secured its systems and is advising customers to remain alert for potential phishing attempts and fraudulent calls using the stolen information.
Business
Direct Eindhoven–Dusseldorf rail link delayed until 2030
The direct rail link between Eindhoven and Düsseldorf has been delayed by at least four years due to infrastructure issues at Venlo station and a shortage of specialised trains. State Secretary Thierry Aartsen has called the delay a major setback for the Brainport region, as the vital economic connection is now not expected to be fully operational until 2030.
News
New EU rules risk child detention at Zeist facility
New European migration rules could lead to asylum-seeking children being held at a detention facility in Zeist from mid-June. Organisations are urging the Dutch government to consider the mental and physical health risks to minors and to implement more humane monitoring alternatives.
Culture
Eindhoven Carnival: Lampegat lights up
Eindhoven transforms into "Lampegat" from 13 to 17 February 2026 for its annual Carnival celebrations. With major party tents at De Markt and Wilhelminaplein, and the grand parade on Saturday, the city offers a mix of modern energy and deep-rooted Brabant traditions.
Business
Philips returns to profit but signals reorganisations ahead
Philips has posted a 2025 profit of 897 million euros, driven by strong growth in the US and its personal health sector. CEO Roy Jakobs credited AI-led innovation for the turnaround, but the company’s new 1.5 billion euro savings plan indicates that further internal reorganisations are expected through 2028.
Business
Peter Wennink warns recent mass layoffs are just the beginning
Former ASML CEO Peter Wennink warns that the current wave of job cuts at major Dutch companies is a sign of deeper changes to come. He suggests that rapid advances in AI and rising costs in essential sectors will force a total rethink of how the national workforce is used.
