News

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.

Protesters demonstrated outside the Senate in The Hague, urging senators to vote against proposed asylum laws. They cited criticism from official bodies and warned that the measures would be ineffective and inhumane. The chair of VluchtelingenWerk Nederland said asylum policy has become increasingly politicised.

The Party for the Animals says it was caught off guard by reports that it has been sidelined in The Hague’s minority coalition. Other coalition parties say trust has broken down over disagreements on relocating waste companies. The move comes amid parallel talks to form a new city coalition after recent elections.

Dutch student cities could ease housing shortages by relaxing rules on shared housing, according to the National Student Union. After reviewing policies in fifteen municipalities, the union says simpler rules and fewer permits could allow more student rooms to be added. The recommendations come as several cities form new local coalitions.

The Dutch railway company NS has started rolling out bodycams for its chief conductors, following trials that showed the devices help prevent escalation. About 3,500 staff members are expected to use them by the end of this year, with footage available for evidence if incidents occur. The move is backed by the government as part of wider efforts to improve safety on public transport.

Three suspects have been released after a stabbing in Noardburgum, though they remain part of the investigation. Police arrested eight people after a fight that left a minor injured. Tension in the village rose over the weekend, with vandalism reported at a nearby home.