Environment/sustainability
Dutch parliament supports age increase for legal firework displays
The Dutch parliament has voted to raise the minimum age for legal firework organisers from 16 to 18 years old. This decision comes as the country prepares for a broader ban on consumer fireworks during the next New Year celebrations. Additionally, new guidelines will encourage local councils to keep approved displays away from wildlife habitats to protect nature.
Career
Unilever job security remains uncertain
Unilever has reached a multi-billion pound agreement to sell its food division to the American company McCormick. While the move aims to integrate global research and production, it has raised questions about the future of 1,000 employees in the Netherlands. Trade unions are currently seeking further details on how the merger will affect specific roles within the Rotterdam headquarters.
Economy
ING expects further rise in inflation after a mild advance in March
ING expects inflation in the Netherlands to rise further in the coming months. This follows what the bank describes as a relatively mild increase...
Economy
DNB: pension funds shift investments from US to Europe
Dutch pension funds reduced their exposure to the US last year while increasing investments in European bonds, DNB reported. Government bonds from Germany and Spain were especially popular. The shift reflects efforts to rebalance portfolios after years of rising share prices.
Economy
Inflation in the Netherlands rises to 2.7 percent
Inflation in the Netherlands increased to 2.7 percent in March, driven largely by higher energy and fuel prices, CBS reported. The rise follows the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which has pushed up oil and gas costs. Economists and the ECB warn that prolonged conflict could keep inflation under pressure.
Economy
Booking data stolen in breach at camping provider Roan
Customer data from camping provider Roan has been stolen in a security breach affecting parts of the holiday sector. While no financial details were taken, the incident may still raise concerns among travellers. The company says it has identified and blocked the source of the breach.
Economy
Refineries boost diesel and jet fuel output amid shortages
Dutch refineries are running at full capacity to meet rising demand for diesel and jet fuel amid global shortages linked to the Iran war. While supply remains stable in the Netherlands, parts of Asia are already facing shortages. High prices are expected to persist as global supply struggles to keep up.
Economy
Chip stocks fall in Amsterdam after Google tech announcement
European chip stocks declined after Google unveiled a new technology that could reduce demand for memory. Despite this, broader markets in Amsterdam and across Europe ended the day higher. Oil prices and geopolitical tensions also remained in focus.