BUSINESS & FINANCE

The FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, so the anticipation can slowly begin. MASTERS is already taking stock of the finances: which countries will send the most capital onto the pitch? The latest market values ​​from Transfermarkt offer a good insight. And the Netherlands? Financially speaking, it is happily holding its own in the top ranks.

Boating at full speed? More and more people are choosing the exact opposite. Peace, quiet, and connection with the surroundings are becoming the new luxury on the water. In the run-up to MASTERS SUMMER EXPO, MASTERS speaks with exhibitor Jules Willems of Floot about slow recreation, electric boating, and a new way of relaxing.

A holiday villa, a yacht, a special car, or that one bag that turns out to be worth just a little more than expected: in the summer, valuable possessions often travel with you. And then you want to be absolutely sure that everything is properly arranged. In the run-up to MASTERS SUMMER EXPO, MASTERS speaks with Sandra Nooyen from Het Huis van Verzekeringen about high-end insurance and why a good policy should above all provide peace of mind.

Where is the best place to start a business in 2026? Not every country makes it equally easy for entrepreneurs. Some entice with low taxes, others with quick registration, access to investors, or a strategic location. New research reveals which countries have the best credentials for entrepreneurs looking to start internationally.

Sometimes, the power lies precisely in simplicity. In ingredients your skin recognizes and in a brand that doesn't follow trends, but has stayed the course for years. MARIA ÅKERBERG proves that natural skincare is anything but optional. In fact, from Sweden, this family business shows just how powerful nature can be when approached with care and a touch of Scandinavian pragmatism.

Some event venues impress with size. Others with service. Hotel Okura Amsterdam has managed to combine the two remarkably well for decades. As a result, the hotel in Amsterdam South has grown into a regular venue for international gatherings, from discreet board meetings to large corporate events.

Anyone who thinks that you can only grow in the beauty industry with deep pockets and big names hasn't yet met L'OYÉ. No investors, no abundance of retail partners, but a collection that is now approaching 600 shades. MASTERS spoke with founder Michelle Kolmsberg.

The Netherlands has once again proven to be a surprisingly strong player on the world stage. The prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list, an annual selection of young talents under 30 who are making a difference worldwide in various sectors, features a striking number of homegrown names this year. These are the Dutch talents who have secured a spot on the list.

To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, Forbes is publishing a list of the 250 greatest living self-made Americans. No silver spoon, but pure willpower and a touch of guts. This is the reality of icons who worked their way to the top with their own hands. This is the top 5.

A place that has been full since day one and where dinner effortlessly transitions into a night out: Bisous. With a distinct Parisian wink and a keen sense of atmosphere, founders Bas Noorman and Lowie Jansen managed to secure a permanent spot on the Amsterdam map in a short time. MASTERS spoke with (young) entrepreneur Bas about building a strong concept and the changing market: “A major shift is currently underway.”

Serving oysters is one thing. Creating an atmosphere is something else entirely. With Ostreum Group, Amike Theune and Stijn Ars demonstrate how youthful entrepreneurial spirit and grand ambitions come together to set a new standard for international hospitality. What began out of pure passion is evolving into a refined concept with a clear international vision. Their ambition? It extends beyond national borders. With Ostreum, they aim to be present in every major city around the world.

More than twenty years after a sports career full of world titles and Olympic medals, little has changed regarding Leontien van Moorsel. As an athlete, the mission was always to win; by now, that link has also been established in the social sphere and in her role as an entrepreneur. Even at the age of 55, everything is still dedicated to overcoming setbacks and winning. Especially concerning her crown jewel, Leontienhuis, a unique project for young people with an eating disorder. A fascinating story that she shares with Jaap de Groot.

In 1983, young industrial designer Nerio Alessandri built his first fitness machine in his parents' garage. Four decades later, Technogym has grown into a global symbol of the modern wellness lifestyle – a brand that brings together technology, design, and health. MASTERS in conversation with Alessandri.

Gold isn't really an investment; it's insurance. According to Marleen Evertsz, founder of GoldRepublic, physical gold isn't about quick profits, but about protecting your assets. Masters spoke with her about gold bars, financial awareness, and why more and more people prefer to keep their value outside the financial system.

The list of lists is back. Business magazine Forbes has once again published its annual ranking of the world's richest people, with a surprisingly large group of newcomers. At the same time, several well-known tech billionaires remain firmly at the top. Who will be calling the shots in this year's global billionaires' club?

You might expect spectacular stunts, expensive cameras, and major productions when it comes to successful YouTube channels. Yet, the internet can be surprisingly easy to please. In fact, some of the most-watched videos consist of little more than a softly humming fan, a crackling fire, or soothing music that plays for hours.

In the Business Lunch series, Floris Kappelle and his partner Rijk de Gooijer sit down with a renowned entrepreneur. Anecdotes and success stories interspersed with the clinking of glasses and the skewering of forks. In this episode, Nicole Scheffers, director of Park & ​​Resorts De Efteling, puts the napkin on her lap. "It can't be rough enough for me."

Innovation is a buzzword at many an investor gathering. But some people actually make it happen. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, Forbes selected the 250 most innovative thinkers of the moment. These are the five frontrunners…

"Hospitality is inherent to commerce." This is the belief on which ModelBusiness BV has been built for twelve years now. Founder Merel Braber's agency provides a representative and professional presence at a wide range of events. No standard hosts and hostesses, but carefully selected personalities who understand hospitality and contribute to the organization's success. Because behind a friendly welcome, there's often more than just a good first impression.

Chic, surrounded by excitement and thrills. The place where you're welcomed with bubbles. It's become an indispensable part of the elite sports industry. With the average fan in the stands, but also luxurious lounges for politicians, CEOs, and celebrities to lobby, negotiate, and relax. Jaap de Groot visits the locations where the Dutch corporate world enjoys top sporting and culinary achievements. This time, he's a guest at the Daikin Lounge at the Thialf ice skating arena in Heerenveen.

For generations, the Simonis family has been synonymous with fish, craftsmanship, and vision. What began as a small eel business has grown into an empire with restaurants like Simonis aan de Haven, Catch by Simonis, Encore by Simonis, and, most recently, La Petite Encore. Yet, the spirit of the family business remains: hard work, honest entrepreneurship, and a constant focus on the future. Because at Simonis, it's not just about fish—it's about tradition, family, and the art of continuous innovation. Alain Simonis shares his perspective on entrepreneurship.