Arne Grimme, Pete Lawley, Mariken van Loopik, Bart de Rijke, and Wiebe Dijkstra, contributed a comprehensive chapter on the financial services mergers and acquisitions (M&A) sector in the Netherlands. This contribution forms part of the Panoramic Financial Services M&A Guide 2024, available on Lexology.

The chapter offers an in-depth analysis of the Dutch financial services M&A sector, examining its market climate, regulatory environment, and the key trends shaping its future. It highlights the Netherlands' active insurance market, illustrated by significant transactions such as the merger of Aegon's Dutch operations with a.s.r. and the acquisition of LeasePlan by Société Générale and ALD.

Focusing on the legal and regulatory framework, the chapter discusses the Dutch Financial Markets Supervision Act and its implications for financial services M&A. It outlines the essential regulatory consents and filings required for transactions in this sector, alongside ownership restrictions and the responsibilities of directors and officers.

The chapter also delves into strategic considerations for deal structures, due diligence practices, and financing strategies within financial services M&A. It addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by the Dutch market, including government policy toward regulating M&A activity and the anticipated cross-border banking consolidation.

This publication serves as an analytical overview of the financial services M&A landscape in the Netherlands, offering insights into the strategic and regulatory considerations that influence transactions in this sector.

The full chapter can be accessed here, offering detailed guidance on navigating financial services M&A transactions in the Netherlands.