Community
New party EVE wants affordable housing and stronger communities
Eindhoven Voor Elkaar (EVE) was founded by city councillor Tjeerd Ritmeester and focuses on housing, social issues, and strengthening connections among residents, neighbourhoods, and the city. With municipal elections approaching, the party is positioning itself as a new, unique local voice in a city experiencing rapid growth and growing social challenges.
Economy
Amsterdam Exchange closes slightly lower
The AEX index closed down 0.2 percent at 1000.62 points. Stock exchanges in Frankfurt, Paris, and London also dropped by up to 0.7 percent.
Mobility
KLM increases ticket prices for long-haul flights
KLM, together with its partner Air France, officially announced price increase for its long haul flights.
Economy
CPB warns of significantly higher inflation
Inflation could be significantly higher this year due to the war in the Middle East, the CPB warns in its latest forecast. Both the baseline estimate and the risk scenario carry considerable uncertainty. If energy markets remain disrupted, inflation could end up more than a quarter higher than in the CPB’s standard projection, which currently expects inflation to ease to 2.3 percent. It remains highly uncertain how long the conflict will impede oil and LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz or prompt Gulf states to reduce energy production.
Environment/sustainability
Eindhoven begins work on 130 hectares of new nature reserves
Eindhoven is undergoing a green transformation with plans to establish 130 hectares of new nature by 2030. By restoring wetlands and expanding nature reserves like Loovelden, the city aims to create a thriving habitat for local wildlife.
Business
Rabo sees house prices rising by an average of 3.1 percent
Dutch house prices are expected to rise more slowly this year, with a projected increase of 3.1 percent. Researchers say the market is cooling due to a temporary boost in supply, even as the long‑term housing shortage continues to push prices upward.
Mobility
European holiday bookings surge amid rising Middle East tensions
Holidaymakers are increasingly turning to European destinations as the conflict in Iran fuels global uncertainty. Travel companies Sunweb and TUI report a sharp rise in bookings for Southern Europe, with Portugal, Spain, and Greece seeing the strongest surge. At the same time, package holidays are regaining popularity as travelers look for security, flexible rebooking options, and guaranteed support when plans change.
Health
Hay fever cases surge early in 2026
Recent data shows a sharp increase in hay fever cases compared to previous years. While warm weather has triggered early symptoms for many, experts suggest that upcoming weather changes may provide some relief.
