De Nederlandsche Bank has published an analysis of how population ageing is affecting banks in the Netherlands. The report finds that ageing works through several channels, including lower economic growth and lower interest rates, an older customer base and workforce, and pressure on banks' traditional business model because Dutch banks still rely heavily on income from lending. Older households generally borrow less than younger ones, while holding more wealth and showing different payment and investment preferences. The report also points to lower digital skills and higher exposure to digital fraud among older customers, alongside workforce challenges such as retaining critical knowledge and expertise as bank staff age. On risk, it highlights potential increases in credit risk from weaker growth and in market risk from concerns about rising and less sustainable public debt in ageing countries. Liquidity risks are currently lower because most older people are not yet drawing down their assets, but this could change. De Nederlandsche Bank says banks can respond by broadening fee-based services such as wealth management and investment advice, developing products tailored to older customers including around gifts and inheritances, continuing to manage ageing-related risks, and investing in accessible and secure digital services.
De Nederlandsche Bank2026-06-09
De Nederlandsche Bank research highlights ageing risks to Dutch banks' lending income customer base and workforce
De Nederlandsche Bank published an analysis of how population ageing affects Dutch banks, highlighting weaker economic growth, lower interest rates, an older customer base and workforce, and pressure on lending-based business models. The report notes changing borrowing, payment and investment patterns, lower digital skills and higher fraud exposure among older customers, and evolving risks. It recommends that banks expand fee-based services, tailor products for older customers, strengthen risk management and invest in accessible, secure digital services.