After establishing Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Australia and Vietnam have deepened cooperation across various fields, with economic growth deemed a key priority. Our reporter sat down with Australian Trade and Investment Commissioner Hanoi, Christopher Morley, for more insight.
Since the beginning of the year, mortgage lending rates in Việt Nam have shown signs of edging up. Some banks are still offering preferential loan packages in the initial period, after which rates may rise to around 12–15 percent per year. This development has immediately affected the property market, prompting both developers and homebuyers to adjust their plans. Rising interest rates have also reduced speculative buying and land hoarding.
Hồ Chí Minh City is promoting rooftop solar power with a focus on self-production and self-consumption. Authorities are simplifying procedures and offering support for households and businesses. From 1 July 2025, organisations and individuals can submit applications for rooftop solar installation electronically.
On 21 March, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính chaired a dialogue with Japanese businesses to call for stronger cooperation in green finance, innovation, and ODA for major infrastructure projects.
US and European markets are showing a divergence as escalating Middle East tensions push oil and gas prices higher. While Wall Street saw modest declines, European indices like the Euro Stoxx 50 and FTSE 100 took a sharp hit. Investors fear that prolonged energy shocks could reignite European inflation and force central banks to hike interest rates, making Europe the current epicentre of global market risk.
While Asian stocks face pressure from Middle East tensions, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Tech Index extended its two-week rally, briefly surpassing 5,200 points. The surge is driven by AI-related stocks and renewed optimism. However, a 30% dip in trading volume has analysts cautious about the sustainability of new capital inflows.
While many countries are tightening their borders, Việt Nam is gradually becoming the place where foreign entrepreneurs put down roots for their startup dreams. With warm climate, affordable cost of living, vibrant international community, and open visa policies, our country is proving to be an ideal choice for those seeking stability, opportunity, and a fulfilling life.