Mr. Mitsuru Imoto has recently delivered a series of lectures at several universities, including Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Foreign Trade University, and Vietnam–Japan University. He observed that many individuals, including Japanese people, often lack proper understanding of financial concepts, which results in various business difficulties. Consequently, he is eager to share his insights and teach people how to develop sound thinking regarding personal finance, with the goal of fostering sustainable growth and success. This occasion represents a rare opportunity to learn directly from an experienced and successful investor. Previously, he conducted a talk at Vinschool, which extended until 4 p.m. due to the high level of audience engagement and numerous questions. Based on the invitation from two LiFers: Dr Han Huy Dung and Dr Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen, ,the session at 8:00 a.m. on February 8, Room 711, Building A21, Vietnam–France University, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Street.Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam Financial Markets

From 2026 to 2030, Vietnam targets a 10% annual GDP growth, marking a pivotal period for investment. The main investment fields are becoming clearer and more dynamic.
Stocks are currently the hottest asset class due to new liberalization under Circular No. 8 (2026), which allows foreign investors to trade without holding local accounts. Expectations of a FTSE Russell “Emerging Market” upgrade by September 2026 may attract large foreign capital inflows, especially in manufacturing, semiconductors, AI, and infrastructure.
Bank deposits are regaining popularity as interest rates rise to 6–8% annually, even among state-owned banks. Corporate bonds are recovering confidence under stricter regulations, focusing on infrastructure and energy projects, though credit risks remain. Mutual funds and ETFs, especially those tracking the VN30, are gaining popularity among individual investors seeking professional management.
The Vietnamese Dong remains stable but slightly depreciates against the US dollar; meanwhile, foreign currency deposits yield near 0%. Vietnam continues to attract major foreign direct investment, mainly in green energy and chip production. Individual investors face limited overseas options due to strict currency controls and low returns on foreign currency deposits. As a result, domestic investors focus on real estate, gold, and cryptocurrencies—the latter supported by the 2026 Digital Technology Industry Law. Simultaneously, easier access to mutual funds through mobile apps and the stock market upgrade are expanding local opportunities. In 2026, Vietnam’s best strategies combine high‑interest bank deposits, diversified ETF/mutual fund investments, and selective hedges with gold or cryptocurrency.
The insurance sector has also strengthened under new laws emphasizing consumer protection. Life insurance (especially unit-linked), private health plans, and non-life products like auto, property, and travel insurance are all expanding through both Vietnamese and international insurers such as Prudential, AIA, Dai‑ichi Life, and Bao Viet.
Conclusion
Overall, 2026 marks an important turning point for Vietnam’s investment environment, where high growth expectations align with stronger regulations and deeper market integration. Successful strategies are no longer about concentrating on a single asset class, but about balancing stability and growth—combining high-yield bank deposits, diversified exposure through stocks and mutual funds, and selective hedging via gold or cryptocurrencies. With a long-term perspective and disciplined allocation, individual investors are well positioned to benefit from Vietnam’s next phase of economic expansion.







