The Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) reports that the number of businesses closing fell in the first quarter of this year for the first time in 2.5 years. Additionally, there was an increase in the number of newly started companies compared to the previous year.
China's economic growth slowed to 4.3 percent in the second quarter of this year due to weak domestic demand. The rise in oil prices, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, has further negatively impacted the nation's economy.
Chip manufacturer ASML has raised its growth forecasts for the year due to increased demand for chips driven by investments in artificial intelligence. The Veldhoven-based company is benefiting from the strong global trend of tech firms expanding their AI capabilities.
Elderly and disabled residents of an apartment complex in Amsterdam Nieuw-West are trapped in their homes due to a two-week maintenance shutdown of the building's only lift. Housing corporation Eigen Haard apologized for the lack of adequate alternatives and has since accelerated the repair schedule while providing limited assistance to help residents navigate the stairs.
The partner of singer Mick Harren has been moved out of the intensive care unit following medical complications during the birth of their daughter. Harren described the experience of the last few days as a rollercoaster.
While official figures indicate that inflation in the Netherlands has decreased to approximately 3 percent, many consumers continue to experience much higher costs for groceries and fixed expenses. Public perception estimates the actual inflation rate closer to 8 percent, highlighting a discrepancy between official data and the lived experience of citizens.