Number of bankruptcies rises rapidly

In January, 469 businesses and institutions (excluding one-man businesses) were declared bankrupt in the Netherlands, i.e. nearly 50 more than in December and nearly 180 more than in January 2008.

As the number of businesses declared bankrupt in a particular month is closely related to the number of days courts are in session, it may vary strongly from month to month. Therefore, the three-monthly moving average is a more reliable indicator.

The three-monthly moving average stood at 439 in January, as against 396 in December. In May 2008, it reached the lowest level in seven years. Subsequently, the indicator began to rise. Especially in the last three months, the indicator has risen rapidly.

Bankruptcies of businesses and institutions (excluding one-man businesses)