News

Getaways spike after national team drops out of the World Cup

Holiday home providers in the Netherlands report a noticeable increase in bookings following the Dutch team’s World Cup elimination, but emphasise that weather conditions and other seasonal factors also contribute to the surge.

AI is making phishing and cyberattacks precarious

The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) warns that rapidly advancing AI is making phishing and cyberattacks more convincing and more damaging. Criminals are using AI to craft realistic, personalised messages, increasing the risk of account takeovers and large‑scale breaches.

Record number of homes for sale, prices hit new peak

More existing homes entered the Dutch housing market last quarter than ever before, while the average selling price climbed back above €500,000. New‑build supply in the Netherlands is rising, which offers temporary relief. But the homes being delivered do not match what buyers want. With most new projects focused on apartments, demand for ground‑level homes continues to go unmet, the NVM warns.

Vehicle theft falls in the first half of 2026

The Netherlands saw fewer stolen cars, vans, and motorcycles in the first half of 2026. Mopeds were the only category to increase, according to new figures from the Vehicle Crime Insurance Bureau Foundation (VbV). This effect has also positively eased the burden on insurance companies. However, there is still a popular target catergory, with criminals adapting rapidly.

Dutch agencies unite to improve child safety

Dutch child protection services, local municipalities, and the national government have signed a pact to streamline support for vulnerable families. The new system replaces fragmented institutional care with a single contact point for households in crisis to prevent conflicting bureaucracy. Government ministers described the reform as a fundamental shift that will scale up nationwide following successful regional trials.

Rotterdam prepares for World Cup semi-final

The four largest Dutch cities are tightening security and traffic measures ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup match between France and Morocco. Rotterdam will close major central streets and parking garages immediately after the game to maintain public order and clear emergency lanes. Local municipalities are collaborating closely with neighborhood leaders and police to ensure street celebrations remain peaceful.

European Parliament to vote on digital euro

he European Parliament will vote this Thursday on establishing the framework for a new digital euro, with a majority expected to defeat a blocking attempt by radical-right factions. Proponents view the digital currency as a geopolitical necessity to reduce Europe's systemic reliance on American payment giants like Visa and Mastercard. Official negotiations between parliament and member states are on track to conclude by the end of the year despite ongoing divisions within conservative parties.

NS and ProRail seek limits on station protests

NS and ProRail want to introduce limits on protest sizes and noise levels at railway stations, citing concerns about safety and passenger movement. A leaked government document shows the plans are part of a broader effort to manage demonstrations while preserving the right to protest.