Market Information Thursday 8 April 2021

Consumer goods and services in the Netherlands were 1.9% more expensive in March 2021, compared to March 2020. This is evident from figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS). In February 2021, inflation was slightly lower at 1.8%. The increase in inflation is mainly caused by the price development of fuel, energy and clothing. The price for a barrel of North Sea Brent oil increased to USD 65.65 in March 2021. In March 2020, a barrel cost USD 34.38.

The Fed continues the repurchase agreement operations. Fed-policymakers said last month that the program will be continued until economic ‘outcomes’ are achieved. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said that the economy “still has a long way to go” to full employment and inflation of 2.0%.

The number of start-ups in the Netherlands increased by 8.0% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year. At the same time, the number of companies that permanently shut down remained about the same and the number of bankruptcies halved. As per April 1, 2021, 2,109,363 companies are active in the Netherlands, according to figures from the Chamber of Commerce.

The 6M Euribor decreased with 1 basis point to -0.52% compared to previous business day. The 10Y Swap decreased with 1 basis point to 0.03% compared to previous business day.

In the attachment, today’s market data on money and capital market rates as well as other rates are presented.