nuApr 16, 2026, 05:53

Slight drop in unemployment, fewer benefit claims in almost all of the Netherlands

The unemployment rate in the Netherlands fell to 4% in March, marking a decrease from a four-year peak recorded in February. Most regions across the country saw a decline in the number of people receiving unemployment benefits during this period.

Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Less demand, no lower prices: new housing market struggles due to high interest rates and small homes

High mortgage interest rates are reducing demand for new-build homes in the Netherlands, as developers maintain high, rigid prices despite falling interest from buyers. Additionally, government mandates for affordable housing are resulting in smaller properties that increasingly fail to align with consumer preferences, further threatening future project completions.

Rembrandt House Museum struggles with falling visitor numbers due to rising hotel VAT and tourist tax: ‘This policy is killing us and the entire city’

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Growth in number of female directors at listed companies stagnates

The growth of female executive board members at companies listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange has stalled, with current trends suggesting gender parity in these roles will not be reached until 2044. While supervisory boards have successfully met mandatory quotas, the pace of new female appointments to executive boards remains stagnant.

Dutch Consumers Association warns against false promises by water filter sellers

The Dutch Consumers Association has warned against misleading advertisements for unnecessary home water filters that falsely promise to remove contaminants like lead and chlorine. Experts caution that these products offer no added value in the Netherlands and may even pose health risks by accumulating bacteria or releasing trapped chemicals into the water.