Franchise agreement signed, disappointing figures — left empty-handed?
The practical reality You have signed a franchise agreement. The figures looked promising, the forecast was convincing, and on that basis you made an investment — possibly even with borrowed funds.Then reality sets in: turnover falls short. Not slightly, but structurally. At that point, the inevitable question arises:“Could I have seen this coming, and were […]
When a quotation becomes more than just a proposal
The practical reality Many businesses assume that a quotation is non-binding. In practice, this is often not the case. A simple confirmation – even a short message such as “agreed” via email or WhatsApp – may already be sufficient to form a binding contract, even without a signed agreement. The key question is therefore not […]
Underperforming employee – what should you do as an employer?
The situation Is an employee not performing well? As an employer, you may consider dismissal due to underperformance. However, this is not something you can do lightly. If you do not follow the correct steps, the consequences can be serious.In a recent case, the Court of Appeal in The Hague ruled that a dismissal for […]
General terms and conditions: the foundation of your business
Many entrepreneurs see general terms and conditions as a formality: something that “comes with it” and sits somewhere at the bottom of the website. In reality, general terms and conditions are the legal foundation of your business. They determine how you work with customers, who is responsible for what, and who bears the risk if […]
The weakest digital link: why platforms get stuck in their payment structures
In the December 8, 2025 edition of Het Financieele Dagblad, the Managing Partner of ACG International highlights that many platforms face withheld funds by PSPs. Not due to errors, but because platform contracts fail to meet PSP compliance requirements. As a result, payments can be blocked and the entire chain can stall. Edith Nordmann explains how platforms can prevent these issues.
Supply Chain Management
ACG International’s Edith Nordmann and Thomas Klaarenbeek shared their insights on managing ESG, compliance risks, navigating export controls, etc. in the Lexology Panoramic Next edition.
Can You Demand Cash From Your Bank? Amsterdam Court Says No
Can customers always access their money? A recent court ruling shows banks may terminate accounts due to compliance risks. Learn about the right to a basic payment account, AML obligations, and the lack of protection for businesses.
Legal changes in the Netherlands as of 1 July 2025: What international entrepreneurs need to know
As of July 1, 2025, new laws and regulations have come into effect in the Netherlands that impact businesses. These legal changes are relevant for both Dutch and international entrepreneurs operating in the Dutch market. The most significant updates concern business financing, employment law, and real estate and leasing. Make sure your business is fully prepared for these regulatory changes.
Positive reference letters: binding obligation or courtesy gesture?
A positive reference letter is more than a formality when specific agreements have been made. By law, an employer is only required to include objective facts, such as the employee’s role and duration of employment. Additional positive remarks are only mandatory if explicitly agreed upon, for example, in a settlement agreement.
New European Anti-Money Laundering rules will have major impact in the Netherlands
New European anti-money laundering regulations tighten internal obligations and governance:
In addition to a broader scope, the requirements themselves are becoming more stringent. The AMLR mandates that institutions must have a comprehensive and up-to-date AML/CFT compliance framework in place, including documented internal procedures, risk assessments, and control mechanisms.