marktbewaking

Marktbewaking is the systematic monitoring and analysis of markets by public authorities to safeguard fair competition, functional information, and compliant conduct. It covers the observation of market structure, price movements, supply and demand dynamics, and potential conduct that harms competition, including cartels, abuse of dominance, collusive bidding, and misleading or deceptive practices. In consumer protection contexts, it also includes monitoring product safety, labeling, and advertising.

In the Netherlands, marktbewaking is carried out by several agencies operating under national and EU law. The Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) conducts competition enforcement and market regulation in sectors such as energy, telecoms, and consumer products. The Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) monitors integrity and transparency in financial markets, while the Dutch central bank (DNB) oversees stability and conduct in the payment and settlement environment and may engage in market surveillance related to systemic risk. At EU level, marktbewaking is supported by competition rules under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and market abuse regulations, with coordination among national authorities and the European Commission.

Methods include market studies, data collection and analysis, risk-based inspections, investigations, and, where necessary, enforcement actions such as fines, corrective measures, or prohibition of practices. The aim is to maintain trustworthy markets, ensure accurate information for consumers and businesses, prevent distortion of competition, and foster innovation and efficient resource allocation.