Focus: Property Comeback Amid Bond Maturity Peak: Ahead of the peak period for corporate bond maturities in August 2025, the real estate market is showing signs of recovery, helping strengthen companies’ debt repayment capacity. First-half business results improved, while a low-interest-rate environment and ample liquidity create favorable conditions for smoother debt restructuring.
Inside Vietnam
Opportunities In The Face Of Challenges: Even compared with those countries paying a tariff that is one percentage point lower, Vietnam can achieve a balanced competitive position if it fully leverages the potential of each industry and the economy as a whole, said Dr. Huynh Thanh Dien at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in an interview with The Saigon Times.
Ownership Rights For Private Sector: The Politburo’s Resolution 68-NQ/TW on private sector development marks a breakthrough that has energized Vietnam’s business community. However, “private sector” is a politico-economic term that must be institutionalized—translated into legal concepts and norms consistent with market economy standards.
What Pressures Lie Ahead For Interest Rates? Despite facing no shortage of challenges, interest rates have remained stable since the start of the year. How will the trend evolve in the coming months, as the global economy experiences volatility but Vietnam continues to pursue strong growth targets? What factors will influence this key variable?
Business
Small Banks, Big Moves: While large banks have experienced only modest gains in their stock prices, smaller lenders have made a significant breakthrough. This divergence highlights a growing disparity within the banking sector and reflects a rising appetite for risk among investors seeking outsized returns from less prominent financial institutions.
New Growth Cycle: The Q2 2025 business performance report indicates encouraging results, with market-wide profits rising over 30% compared to the same period last year and up 21.6% for the first half of the year.
Living
A Seat For Everyone: How can we ensure that theater is truly meaningful and inclusive for everyone—especially individuals with disabilities? In a conversation with The Saigon Times, Dr. Renick Bell of RMIT University Vietnam delves into how performances can move beyond mere accessibility—where audiences are simply able to attend—toward genuine equity, where every individual can fully engage with and emotionally connect to the experience unfolding on stage.
Lanterns Light Up Ancient Streets: The ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam, is renowned for its centuries- old architecture, distinctive cuisine, and vibrant lantern tradition that continues to draw visitors from around the world.
Travel
Vi Rong Cape Beckons With Coastal Adventure: Vi Rong Cape in Gia Lai Province has become a popular site for travelers seeking unspoiled coastal landscapes and outdoor activities.
Freshwater Dolphin Fish: A Seasonal Delight In Mekong Delta: Freshwater dolphin fish (scientifically known as Yasuhikotakia modesta), a seasonal delicacy in the Mekong Delta, has long been prized by local consumers for its tender and flavorful flesh. The fish is commonly found in deep, fast-flowing sections of the Tien and Hau rivers, particularly during the annual flooding season from July to October on the lunar calendar.
