The net international investment position (NIIP) increased to €337.7 billion in the second quarter of 2023. Belgium is again a net borrower from the rest of the world.

The slight upturn masks contrasting sector-specific trends: a clear improvement in business-related services, near stabilisation in industry, a decline in trade, and an even more pronounced dip in the building industry.

The NBB’s balance sheet has tripled over the past 15 years. This finding regularly gives rise to questions about the Bank’s exposure to financial risks. In this regard, the balance sheet is not the only factor to consider. Read more in a new article on our blog by Jonas Willequet.

Consumer expectations regarding the macroeconomic situation have been revised upwards. On the other hand, households barely adjusted their assessment of their future financial situation and scaled back their saving intentions.

Foreign trade growth rates slipped further into the red in July. The effects of Russia’s war in Ukraine continue to be felt. Although the impact on Belgian trade remains limited overall, the country’s trade profile has been affected in 2023.

A few weeks ago, Credit Suisse and UBS published the Global Wealth Report 2023. According to the report, Belgians are the richest people in the world. But is this really true? Read the answer by economist Jan De Mulder on our blog.