Podcast Summary: De 7 – 16/01/2026

Episode Theme:
In this episode, host Bert Rymen offers a fast-paced briefing on seven major developments shaping the news of the day. Key focus areas include the electrification of new company cars, the surging performance of chip manufacturers boosting technology stocks, and a “family reunion” storyline from the world of books. The podcast delivers succinct, need-to-know updates for listeners to start their day well-informed.

1. De Elektrificatie van Bedrijfswagens (00:45–02:15)

• Main Point:
  More than half of all new company cars in Belgium are now fully electric, marking a significant milestone in corporate mobility and the green transition.

• Key Insights:

  • The shift is attributed to both government policy and the growing availability of electric models.
  • Leasing remains the primary way companies are adopting EVs.
  • Speculation arises around whether combustion-engine company cars will soon become a thing of the past.

• Notable Quote:

  “Voledig elektrische auto’s zijn nu de standaard in nieuwe bedrijfswagenparken – de geschiedenis begint te schrijven voor de verbrandingsmotor.” — Bert Rymen (01:17)

2. Chipproducenten duwen techaandelen hoger (02:16–04:15)

• Main Point:
  Chip manufacturers, led by the Taiwanese giant TSMC, are propelling tech stocks upwards, with a notable impact on global financial markets.

• Key Insights:

  • TSMC’s optimistic annual outlook sends shockwaves through tech markets, with particular emphasis on continued AI demand.
  • Nvidia is highlighted as a standout performer in the US; Asian markets also react positively.
  • The overall enthusiasm is driven by demand for AI data centers, benefiting not only chipmakers but also companies producing manufacturing equipment for chips.
  • The question is raised whether the fear of an “AI bubble” has now been definitively quashed.

• Notable Quote:

  “Het optimisme rond AI en datacenters stuwt alles in de lift, van chipproducenten tot machinebouwers.” — Bert Rymen (03:22)

3. Boekenland: Een Familiereünie (04:16–05:55)

• Main Point:
  The book retail sector in Belgium is witnessing an important “family reunion” — a strategic coming together involving significant players in book distribution and sales.

• Key Insights:

  • The CEO of Standaard Boekhandel is prominent in orchestrating new collaborations for more efficient supply chains and better customer experience.
  • Chris Hoflack and other team members facilitate discussions with publishing houses including Trexis and others.
  • The segment underscores how even in digital times, physical books and strategic partnerships are vital.

• Notable Quote:

  “In boekenland is het alsof familie zich hergroepeert: een sterke, gezamenlijke aanpak lijkt de toekomst.” — Bert Rymen (05:15)

4. Streamingplatforms Blijven Strijden (05:56–07:30)

• Main Point:
  Competition among streaming platforms in the Flemish market remains fierce, with local content as a distinguishing factor.

• Key Insights:

  • CEO Bart De Groote of Streamz acknowledges the need for caution yet holds an optimistic outlook as new strategies focus on locally relevant shows.
  • Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime continue to jockey for position, but the emphasis is increasingly on series that resonate with the local audience.
  • The current top 10 is dominated by domestic productions, reflecting shifting viewer preferences.

• Notable Quotes:

  “Je strategie als streamer moet voluit inzetten op local content om relevant te blijven.” — Bert Rymen (06:28)
  “Bart De Groote blijft voorzichtig optimistisch: ‘Experience is everything.’” (07:12)

Memorable Moments and Miscellaneous

• Global Markets: Brief mention of how American and Asian indices are responding differently to tech optimism (S&P 500 up, but Asian reactions especially positive) (02:45–03:05).
• AI hype/bubble: Bert raises the question of whether lingering fears of an “AI bubble” are now truly in the rearview mirror (03:40).
• Book Sector Deadline: Reference to a key industry deadline—possibly relating to new distribution or publication strategies—set for February 20 (05:36).
• Streaming Trends: The surprising staying power of local series like “Special Forces” overshining bigger international names (06:48).
• Cultural Note: Humorous aside about Donald Trump briefly appearing in local headlines (07:25).

Conclusion

This episode of De 7 efficiently covers the key transitions shaping the business and cultural landscape—from the rapid spread of electric company cars and surging chip markets to renewed collaboration in the book sector and the relentless competition among streaming platforms. With pragmatic quotes and keen market observations, the episode delivers actionable context and a snapshot of the day’s biggest developments.