fewer bankruptcies

According to Statistics Netherlands, 464 businesses and institutions (excluding one-man businesses) were declared bankrupt in January, 56 fewer than in December 2014. The decrease was caused by the fact that January had one court session day less than December, 4 against 5. Compared to January 2014 the number of bankruptcies was 134 less.

Decline bankruptcies in construction and financial services

In almost all sectors the number of bankruptcies declined. The number of bankruptcies in the construction sector was down by 10, and in the financial sector by 9.

Trade and financial services had the highest number of bankruptcies. The trade is also one of the few sectors with an increase of the number of bankruptcies, from 132 in December to 137 in January.  

Together with the sector specialised services, trade and financial services have the highest number of businesses. Adjusted for the number of businesses, accommodation and food, trade and construction are the economic activities with the most bankruptcies.

Downward trend

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 considerably from one month to the next. Therefore, the three-month moving average is a more reliable indicator.

At 491, the three-month moving average was lower than in December. The average has decreased considerably following a peak in mid-2013. In January it is at its lowest level since September 2011.  

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