Slump in private sector investments

The volume of private sector investments in tangible fixed assets was 15.2 percent down in June 2013 from June 2012. The decline is more substantial than in April and May, when private sector investments were 10.2 percent down from one year previously.

The larger slump in private sector investments in tangible fixed assets was mainly due to a further downturn in investments in transport vehicles. In June 2012, many companies anticipated a change in tax laws. The emission limits for CO2, which apply to the tax on passenger cars and motorcycles (BPM) and the additional tax liability for company cars have been lowered since 1 July. As many companies decided to purchase a car before this date, car sales in June 2012 were relatively high. Furthermore, June 2013 had one working day less than June 2012. Figures on private sector investments are not adjusted for the effect of the number of working days.

By means of six indicators, the Investment Radar shows whether circumstances for Dutch private sector investments have improved or become less favourable. According to August’s Investment Radar, the investment climate has improved.

Private sector investments in tangible fixed assets (volume)