The United States economy grew by 2.2 percent last year, a decrease from the 2.8 percent growth recorded in 2024. This expansion was primarily driven by increased consumer spending and business investments.
The Amsterdam-based streetwear brand Patta designed a warmup shirt for the Dutch national football team featuring a mix of Dutch, Surinamese, and African symbols. Despite some racist reactions online, founder Guillaume Schmidt noted that the shirt sold out within a few hours.
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it will begin charging maritime service fees for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. These fees are intended to replace tolls and are reportedly part of an agreement between Iran and the United States.
Dutch Infrastructure Minister Vincent Karremans confirmed that the Buitenhuizerbrug will remain out of service throughout 2026 due to budget constraints. In a letter to the Haarlem Yacht Club, the minister stated that Rijkswaterstaat must prioritize operations within its current financial reality.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100 percent import tariffs on French wine and champagne in response to a French tax on large American tech companies. Trump stated that the tariffs will be applied unless France abolishes the digital services tax.
The Dutch public broadcaster VPRO is cutting 58 jobs across its media, production, and support departments due to budget cuts. As part of a broader reorganization, 14 new positions will be created to offset some of the losses. Employees were officially informed of the changes on Monday.