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The Limits of Force Majeure and Unforeseen Circumstances

Geopolitical developments such as war, sanctions, and disruptions in global supply chains are increasingly becoming part of the normal business risk for internationally operating companies. As a result, these events can no longer automatically be regarded as unforeseeable or as force majeure. Entrepreneurs are therefore well advised to regulate geopolitical risks contractually in advance, ensuring clarity on risk allocation and on the adjustment of obligations in the event of international disruptions.

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.

Integrating ESG in the Blue Economy and Emerging Risks in Maritime Transport

The blue economy promotes sustainable ocean use for economic growth while protecting ecosystems.
As it expands, integrating ESG principles is vital—especially for maritime and insurance sectors, where it’s a legal and strategic priority.
Key focus areas include workforce training in green technologies and ensuring safe, fair, and supportive working conditions, aligning with ESG goals and boosting employee retention.

Joint Approach to Money Laundering by Dutch Banks Under Fire!

Banks are obliged under Dutch (and European) law (the Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act, “Wwft”) to monitor all financial transactions of their customers for possible criminality. But the big Dutch banks’ joint money laundering approach undermines European legislation (AMLR) and must stop.

Navigating the Waters of Director’s Personal Liability and Its Inheritance: A Legal Perspective

Personal liability for a company’s debts can now be inherited. A director’s personal liability for a company’s outstanding debts does not simply disappear on death. Instead, this responsibility is transferred to the director’s heir(s).
Strategic decision-making, transparency and the need for comprehensive legal and financial preparation are of great importance to anyone involved in or connected to the business sphere. Understanding these dynamics and preparing for their implications is crucial for both protection and forward planning.

AML – How a small financial institution can be as compliant as a bank

The compliance legislation seems unambiguous – but that is not quite right. The purpose of the rules is clear – but the nuances make the correct application of the rules challenging in practice.
Compliance laws and regulations cannot be adapted for smaller financial institutions, but the way smaller institutions deal with them can.

The Dutch National Bank (DNB) scolded – founders DeGiro can be trusted

Wwft continues to occupy minds. The court overturns DNB’s earlier decision that founders of DeGiro are untrustworthy dismissing much of the evidence. At issue are six facts presented by DNB, which, by court order, may now not be used to prove any untrustworthiness of DeGiro’s founders.

bunq-ruling & The Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act

The Prevention of Financing of Terrorism Act (Wwft) has a risk-based approach that requires institutions themselves to assess the relevant risks of a client and then put in place sufficient mitigating measures in return. Banks and financial institutions have armies of employees dealing with KYC and CDD on a daily basis. Where do you stand?