inflation

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.

Inflation in the Netherlands climbed further in May, driven by higher flight costs, holiday demand, and rising energy prices. The increase keeps Dutch inflation above the eurozone average. Economists warn that ongoing geopolitical tensions could push prices up further.

Exports slow and Middle East tensions cloud the outlook, but consumption and several key sectors signal underlying resilience.

Global crop prices have surged to their highest level since 2023, driven by the Iran war, supply disruptions, and extreme weather, raising concerns over rising food costs worldwide.

ING expects the eurozone’s trade surplus to fall sharply this year because of the Middle East war and rising competition from China, with the bloc at risk of a sizeable trade deficit in 2026.

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.

The Dutch economy is facing renewed pressure as the Iran conflict drives up global energy prices. Fresh projections from the Central Planning Bureau show that inflation will rise faster than previously expected, wiping out the modest purchasing‑power growth households were set to gain this year.