Private sector investments substantially up

The volume of private sector investments in tangible fixed assets was 19.3 percent up in December 2013 from December 2012. This is mainly due to higher investments in passenger cars, machinery and residential and non-residential property. For the third month in a row, private sector investments were higher than one year previously.

Soaring car sales in December 2013 were partly caused by changing tax laws. On 1 January 2014, the limits for CO2 emission, which apply to the tax on passenger cars and motorcycles (BPM) and the additional tax liability for company cars, will again become stricter. In view of these tax measures, many companies decided to buy new cars prior to 1 January.

December had one working day more in 2013 than in 2012. Figures have not been adjusted for the effects 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 deteriorated. According to the Investment Radar of February 2014, the investment climate in the Netherlands has improved marginally.

Private sector investments in tangible fixed assets (volume)

More figures can be found on the theme page Enterprises.

For more information on economic indicators, see the Economic Monitor.