Dutch economy grew by 0.3 percent in the fourth quarter – NU.nl

This reports the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) Friday based on an initial estimate.

Chief Economist Peter Hein van Mulligen speaks of a “solid growth”. “This is not very fast growth, but slightly stronger than the quarters previously,” said Van Mulligen.

In the third and second quarter the economy grew by 0.1 percent from the previous quarter . It was the seventh consecutive quarter that the economy has increased in size.

Throughout 2015 the economy grew by 1.9 percent. The decision to reduce natural gas has depressed growth by about 0.4 percentage points.

In 2015, exports grew by 4.2 percent and imports by 4.9 percent. Households consumed more last year, the government approximately the same as in 2014.

Investment

“Once again it was the investment that grew the fastest of all spending in the Netherlands,” said the chief economist. It was in the fourth quarter to 10 percent compared with a year earlier. This is comparable to the quarters above.

In particular, considerably more investment in housing. In the fourth quarter investments rose 18 percent from a year earlier. This growth was somewhat less than in the previous quarters.

Lease cars

Furthermore, companies have particularly invested in company cars. Also that investment in the fourth quarter significantly boosted.

This is possible because the addition rate and the bpm be increased with effect from this year. “That gave businesses a tax incentive that car purchases to bring out, so they were able to benefit from lower tariffs in 2015.”

Businesses also spent more on machinery, equipment, software and telecom equipment . “Companies are still positive about their prospects. For more investment along with good sentiments and we also clearly reflected, in recent quarters.”

Consumers

Furthermore, consumers in the fourth quarter just spent over a year earlier. It was an increase of 1.1 percent.

They spent more on home furnishings and electrical appliances. They also spent more on services such as catering, recreation and culture.

That consumer spending have increased, fits with the increased employment and the recovery of the housing market. In 2015, 16 percent more homes sold than in 2014. Also, consumer confidence positive since 2015

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By: NU.nl