economy

Dutch banks ING, Rabobank and ABN Amro posted billions in H1 2026 profits, reigniting the debate over social fairness. But ING economists warn the Dutch economy is hitting limits on labour, space and infrastructure. Meanwhile, ABN Amro faces potential US penalties for banking the International Criminal Court, adding geopolitical risk for the state-owned lender.

Ukraine says it has put more than 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity out of action, just days after reports suggested Russia's economy could fund two more years of war. The strikes could undermine that resilience and have knock-on effects on global energy prices — and on energy bills in the Netherlands.

Ukraine received €6.2 billion from the EU in two weeks for defence and reforms. The Netherlands contributes to these funds, affecting Dutch taxpayers. Expats should be aware of potential impacts on national spending and political discourse.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva is seeking a fourth term in the 4 October election, tied in polls with Flavio Bolsonaro. He has announced a 15% welfare increase and warned against foreign interference at the UN. For expats in the Netherlands, the result could affect trade, investment and consular services.

As Xi Jinping heads to Washington for talks with Trump, Taiwan conducts live-fire drills. A top US diplomat warns a conflict could devastate the global economy more than WWII. Here’s what it means for expats in the Netherlands, from trade disruptions to visa implications.

Iceland voted 52.8% against restarting EU accession talks in a referendum with record turnout. The result keeps Iceland in the EEA/Schengen but outside the EU, with no immediate impact on expats in the Netherlands. The vote underscores the enduring power of the fishing industry and sovereignty concerns over security arguments.

Icelandic voters rejected EU accession talks with 52.5% ‘No’ vote on 30 August 2026. For expats in the Netherlands, the result means no change: Iceland remains in the EEA and Schengen. The narrow margin reflects deep divisions over fishing, sovereignty, and the economy.

Iceland votes today on whether to restart EU membership talks. The result is too close to call, with the fishing industry opposing and supporters hoping EU entry will stabilise the króna. For expats in the Netherlands, a 'yes' could eventually mean more freedom of movement and a slightly larger EU.

The US-Canada trade war escalates as Trump announces 50% auto tariffs for 2027 and Canada retaliates with tariffs on $19.9bn of US goods starting September 8. Here’s what the trade escalation means for internationals in the Netherlands.

A €300 billion inheritance wave from Baby Boomers will widen the gap between Dutch homeowners with family wealth and those without — including most expats. The report warns that only 1 million residents will benefit, deepening inequality in an already overheated market.

A new analysis by mortgage advisor Van Bruggen warns that €300 billion in housing assets will be transferred through gifts and inheritances between 2024 and 2033, primarily benefiting older Dutch homeowners and deepening inequality. For internationals without family wealth in the Netherlands, buying a home will become even harder.