News about markets, companies, economy, and financial developments
◆6 sources
AkzoNobel sold its decorative paint businesses in Southeast Asia and Australia to Japan’s Nippon Paint for €1.2 billion, an amount also reported as about $1.4 billion. The businesses include operations in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Papua New Guinea and Australia.
◆4 sources
Nearly 15,500 applications for new or expanded electricity-use connections were on waiting lists at regional grid operators in the Netherlands at the end of June, according to Netbeheer Nederland. That was more than 300 higher than the 15,154 applications recorded at the end of 2025. Grid congestion is delaying investments and sustainability projects by companies and organisations; some projects may be cancelled.
◆6 sources
Applications for electricity-grid connections, including for new construction, rose sharply in the first half of 2026. One report put the number of applications for projects planned over the next three years at 600,000, more than twice the number normally built in that period. Demand from households for electricity for heat pumps and electric cars is also rising faster than grid operators had forecast, and new rules are expected to place households on waiting lists as well.
◆5 sources
Transavia announced a large-scale cost-cutting programme to improve profitability after reporting insufficient profits. It remains unclear whether the measures will lead to job losses. One report said wage concessions from staff, or a pay freeze, could be considered.
◆5 sources
The Dutch shipbuilder Damen is seeking nearly €4.7 billion from the German government after it cancelled an order for new frigates earlier this year. Germany considers the damages claim unfounded. Damen also objects to Germany’s direct award of an order for four frigates to TKMS, arguing that the contract should have been put out to European tender.