FX.co ★ Dutch Business Confidence Slips Further Into Negative Territory in May

Business confidence in the Netherlands deteriorated in May 2026, extending its stay in negative territory as sentiment among Dutch entrepreneurs weakened further. According to the latest data updated on 28 May 2026, the business confidence indicator fell to -2.0 in May from -0.7 in April 2026.

The deeper negative reading suggests that Dutch businesses have become more cautious about their current conditions and short‑term outlook. While still relatively close to neutral, the continued decline signals mounting concerns in the corporate sector that could weigh on investment and hiring decisions in the months ahead. Policymakers and market participants are likely to watch upcoming releases closely for signs of whether this softening sentiment stabilizes or widens into a more pronounced downturn in confidence.