Focus: Harnessing Forex Rates: In the first quarter of this year, the U.S. dollar strengthened by about 2.3% against the Vietnamese dong, the strongest increase since 2012. The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the central bank, has recently issued a draft amendment to Circular 02/2021/TT-NHNN providing guidance for credit institutions that conduct foreign exchange transactions (Circular 02/2021). What is the SBV’s intention at a time when the foreign exchange market volatility remains?
Inside Vietnam
Credit Pick-up Gathers Steam: Credit growth regained momentum in March 2024, giving hopes that lending will further improve in the coming months. Apart from a better economic outlook, what other factors could boost the demand for loans?
Adapting To New Market Trends: Vietnam’s beverage industry has experienced significant changes, fueled by the increasing health consciousness and shifts in consumer spending habits. No longer content with mere refreshment, consumers now seek beverage brands that resonate with their values and promote their overall health. In response, many businesses are working to adapt to new market trends and prepare for future growth.
Uncertainty Prevails Over Commercial Housing Development: The Government is expected to propose the National Assembly issue a resolution allowing for a pilot scheme in which commercial housing projects can engage in land use rights transfer deals to obtain land or can be carried out if they have land other than residential land. According to the HCMC Real Estate Association, the lack of this pilot scheme would lead to “tiny” housing projects mushrooming after the 2024 Land Law comes into effect in 2025.
Business
Gold In Vietnam’s Economy: The Vietnamese economy had had an estimated 2,000 tons of gold by the end of 2023. This figure is much higher than the volume often mentioned in recent discussions.
Plans Unveiled For Dividends: The peak annual general meetings season for 2024 is coming. Apart from business plans, what investors care about most are dividend payment plans and stock prices have gained certain support from this despite the pressure from market corrections.
Living
Haphazard VFX Training: Vietnam’s film industry has seen a surge in visual effects (VFX) outsourcing projects from various countries and territories. However, the training and recruitment of skilled VFX professionals remain in their infancy.
Spiritual Enchantment Through The Lens: As part of the celebrated annual Hue Festival 2024, the revered Hue Nam Palace Festival captivated the hearts of believers, pilgrims, locals, and tourists alike on April 10. The focal point of the festivities was the enchanting procession of the Mother Goddess, both on the streets and along the river.
Travel
Serene Beauty Of La Ngau Stream In Binh Thuan: La Ngau Stream has emerged as a captivating destination for tourists for its poetic and wild landscape, evoking a sense of peace and providing fresh air straight from its own pure essence.
Tasting Exquisite Flavors Of Fermented Snakehead Fish: Prepared by skilled local cooks using traditional recipes, fermented snakehead fish in An Giang Province captivates the taste buds with its distinctive flavor and cultural significance, satisfying even the most discerning diners.
