Focus: Electricity Market Bottlenecks: The late execution of worthwhile electricity market mechanisms is a major bottleneck that needs to be quickly removed to develop the power sector and fuel socio-economic growth.
Inside Vietnam
Legal Confusion Over Bancassurance: Several commercial banks had suspended their bancassurance services as of July 1, 2024, when the 2024 Law on Credit Institutions took effect. This is attributable to the absence of clear guidelines for the regulation that prohibits banks from associating the sale of insurance policies with the provision of banking products and services in any form.
Not Just For Tax Incentives: “Vietnam should adopt a new mindset in foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction, which shifts away from offering incentives to providing support, with a focus on key priorities and targeted objectives for the economy,” said Dr. Huynh Thanh Dien at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in an interview with The Saigon Times.
Continued Rise In Interest Rates: Putting exchange rate volatility and inflation under control results in money supply growth slowing, thus piling pressure on interest rates. However, economic recovery and credit growth are key factors for deposit interest rates to rise to new levels. Deposit interest rates are expected to hit new highs in Q3 2024 before they stabilize.
First Signs of Market Recovery: Hanoi and HCMC are seeing the growing demand for condominiums and sustainable office spaces. The industrial sector is expanding rapidly, driven by strong foreign investment activity and a focus on high-tech manufacturing.
Business
Waiting For A Summer Catalyst: Besides a number of real estate stocks that have strongly attracted buyers, some others are still struggling. This may present an opportunity for investors in the coming weeks or months. Several factors could help real estate stocks return to their growth path.
Living
Daily Life Through The Lens: Nicolas Cornet is a French photographer who has fallen in love with Vietnam. This affection is vividly reflected in his photos. Here are excerpts from a recent interview with him.
Unwinding In Pu Mat National Park: Located in the west of Nghe An Province, Pu Mat National Park is a favorite summer destination for tourists. Covering 180,000 hectares, this park boasts a lush forest filled with stunning natural landscapes.
Travel
Hanging Lake Inside Thung Cave In Quang Binh: An emerald lake, suspended on the cave wall and surrounded by a unique stalactite system, creates a mesmerizing scene inside Thung Cave, part of the Hung Thoong cave system in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
Hue-style Steam Rice Roll With Grilled Pork: Hue-style steam rice roll with grilled pork (banh uot thit nuong) is a favorite rustic dish for the people of Hue City. With simple ingredients, this dish captivates many diners with its distinctive and unforgettable flavor.
