Stories from Amsterdam · Netherlands

A music streaming service reported a loss of 86 million euros despite growth in monthly users and paying subscribers. The company's revenue for the quarter reached 4.2 billion euros, falling short of the 4.5 billion euros expected by analysts.

Chip manufacturer NXP Semiconductors reported Q1 2026 revenue that surpassed Wall Street expectations. Sales for the period increased by 12.2%, causing the company's stock to jump 11.4%.

A political decision to implement healthcare budget cuts in the Netherlands was reversed after it was discovered the cuts were made in error. The specific austerity measure was accidentally selected on a checklist during the planning process.

Approximately 100 volunteers entered the Amsterdam canals on Tuesday to remove waste left over from King's Day. Many children participated in the cleanup effort. The organizing group told AATV they hope to recover several thousand kilograms of refuse.

A Russian espionage operation has targeted users of the Signal messaging app in the Netherlands. The attack reportedly involved compromising Signal customer service to gain access to messages. This allowed attackers to read confidential chats by bypassing end-to-end encryption through service-level access. The method involved requiring users to verify via PINs to facilitate the breach. Unlike WhatsApp, which performs unencrypted backups, Signal is backed by a non-profit foundation rather than a profit-oriented corporation like Meta. The app Signal remains end-to-end encrypted, meaning neither users nor the Signal Foundation can read messages. These security features are highlighted following recent attacks on Signal users. A source stated that while scammers may convince victims to reveal passwords, the app itself has not been hacked.

Chinese luxury automaker Hongqi is in discussions with Stellantis regarding potential production at Stellantis plants in Europe. The move aims to localize production for Chinese original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) within the European market.

PostNL reported a decline in parcel deliveries during the first three months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. This decrease in volume led to lower revenue within the company's parcel division. A trading update published this morning attributed the decline to falling confidence among Dutch consumers. The report suggests the conflict in the Middle East has contributed to this drop in consumer confidence.

The European Banking Federation and the Dutch Banking Association (NVB) are coordinating efforts to improve digital security. Marco Doeland, head of security at the NVB, stated that parties are working together to create a safer digital world. This collaborative approach has been noted in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

Morocco successfully entered the Dutch frozen raspberry market, achieving record export volumes in 2025.

The A4 and A10 South motorways are partially closed in the Amsterdam area. Drivers are advised to expect delays and use alternative routes until the weekend. Commuters are encouraged to check traffic information and the NS app for updates. Roadwork on the southern side of Amsterdam will cause closures on the A4 and A10 motorways. The closures are scheduled to take place between April 27 and May 14. Drivers should expect an additional 30 to 60 minutes of travel time. Construction work will take place on the south side of Amsterdam between April 27 and May 14. Authorities recommend checking routes before departure due to the closures.