Focus: A Perspective On National Housing Fund Model: “The National Housing Fund should not only focus on social housing (for low-income groups) but also support housing for lower-middle-income earners. For the fund to operate effectively and sustainably, it needs a flexible and transparent capital mobilization mechanism and a well-structured operational model,” said To Anh Hung, real estate expert and CEO of A-City, in an interview with The Saigon Times.
Inside Vietnam
Falling Interest Rates: A Boon Or Bane? Deposit and lending rates are showing signs of stabilizing and gradually decreasing, following a significant upward trend that had persisted from Q4 2024 to early 2025.
Gold Prices Rise Amid Tariff Uncertainty: Gold prices have surpassed the US$3,000-per-ounce mark, setting a new record in recent history. This surge comes amid growing concerns over the global economic outlook, spurred by the tariff policies of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Cautious Response To U.S. Tariff Policy Changes: Vietnamese businesses face growing pressure to adapt as U.S. tariff and trade policies tighten, particularly with increased trade defense measures in President Donald Trump’s second term. Companies are seeking effective strategies to mitigate the impact of these barriers.
Business
Where Is Smart Money Moving? Although the VN-Index of the Hochiminh Stock Exchange (HOSE) has surged recently, the “green skin, red heart” pattern—where a few large-cap stocks push the index higher while most others decline—has reemerged, casting doubt on the rally’s overall strength.
Living
Molding Dreams: In a softly lit showroom, where gentle morning light streams through the balcony, rows of ball-jointed dolls sit in quiet repose. Articulated with movable ball-and-socket joints, these dolls are crafted for lifelike poses and fluid movement, making them uniquely customizable and expressive.
Hue’s Floral Symphony: In March, the ancient capital of Hue transforms into a floral wonderland, where gentle drizzles and the soft warmth of spring give way to bursts of vibrant colors. As the city transitions into summer, flowers bloom in every corner, each carrying its own beauty and story, captivating both locals and visitors alike.
Travel
Terraced Fields In Water-Pouring Season: Kon Vong Kia is emerging as a must-visit destination in Kon Tum Province, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The village is renowned for its breathtaking terraced fields, which are now entering the water-pouring season—a phenomenon that transforms the landscape into a mesmerizing mosaic of colors when viewed from above.
Steamed Moc: A Culinary Heritage In Quang Nam: Mọc, a traditional steamed dish from Quang Nam Province, holds a significant place in local cuisine. Originally served at family gatherings and ancestral ceremonies, steamed mọc reflects the essence of simplicity and the artistry of Quang Nam’s culinary traditions.
