RSM - Voice Of International Trade - February 2025
Dear Reader,
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, staying ahead in investment, security, and accessibility is more important than ever. This month’s edition of Voice of International Trade spotlights key developments and provides actionable insights to help you navigate these critical areas. From regulatory compliance and strategic investments to accessibility mandates, we cover everything you need to drive meaningful impact and seize new opportunities. Dive in and take action now to stay at the forefront of these dynamic sectors.
Our articles are also available in Dutch. You can find them at the following link.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to sharing our thought leadership articles with you again in two weeks.
Warm regards,
Mario van den Broek
RSM Netherlands Tax & Business Consulting Services
Considerations for Private Equities and Other Investment Companies Investing in High-Tech and Defence Investees
In recent years, investment companies have increasingly turned their attention to the defense and dual-use technology sectors, recognizing the growth potential amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. However, navigating this space presents a unique set of challenges. Investors must balance profit-driven decisions with ethical considerations, all while complying with stringent regulatory and ESG standards. This article serves as a practical guide for investment firms looking to engage with the defense and high-tech sectors, offering strategies to mitigate risks and align with export controls and ESG principles. It examines both the challenges and financial incentives, such as the "Defence Equity Facility" and the Ramp-up Fund, designed to help investors manage risk and maximize returns. For both investors and industry players, the article outlines actionable strategies to leverage the sector's momentum, attract investment, and reduce associated risks. This article builds on a previous RSM article, which explored the complex relationship between investors and the defense, deeptech, and dual-use sectors. ?
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Dutch General Security Requirements for Defense Contracts (ABDO) - Compliance and Opportunities for Companies
The Dutch General Security Requirements for Defence Contracts, known as ABDO (Algemene Beveiligingseisen voor Defensie Opdrachten) is a comprehensive security framework established by the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) to protect sensitive information, assets, and operations related to defense contracts within the Netherlands. ?
This framework is designed to safeguard sensitive information, assets and operations related to defense contracts within the Netherlands. Sensitive information includes transferable knowledge that, if exposed, could compromise national security or facilitate espionage. Compliance with ABDO is mandatory for companies engaging in defense contracts involving classified information, particularly those operating in critical sectors such as technology, cybersecurity, and logistics. The primary objective of ABDO is to ensure that all organizations engaged in defense contracts uphold strict security measures to mitigate risks and protect national security interests.
This article explores the various facets of ABDO compliance, from personnel and physical security to cybersecurity protocols. It also highlights the strategic advantages of compliance, including enhanced competitiveness, strengthened supply chain security, and the opportunity to attract government and private sector investment. Additionally, the article addresses the upcoming transition to ABRO, which will broaden the scope of security requirements to encompass all governmental contracts.
Implementation of EU Accessibility Act for Financial Institutions
Approximately 20% of the Dutch population and 27% of individuals over the age of 16 within the European Union experience various levels of disabilities. Addressing this, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) aims to standardize accessibility regulations across EU Member States. This legislative move not only safeguards the rights of individuals with disabilities but also enhances cross-border trade and broadens market access for businesses. By mandating the redesign of products and websites to be accessible to everyone, the EAA introduces both compliance requirements and business opportunities. Products and services adhering to the EAA's standards will enjoy the privilege of free movement across the EU, exempt from additional national regulations. This facilitates greater market penetration for companies and opens a new customer base, including people with disabilities and the elderly. Many banking services fall under the scope of the EAA. Redesigning products and services for accessibility is not an overnight task, the time to start preparing for compliance is as the deadline is approaching. This article provides a brief overview of the banking services covered by the Act and outlines key steps financial institutions should take to ensure compliance. ?
If you have any questions regarding these articles, or have an inquiry for our team of Tax and Consulting experts, please contact:
Mario van den Broek ([email protected]) - +31 6 15 83 55 00)