Vietnam’s banks tap investors for US$7bil as economy grows rapidly

Vietnamese banks are preparing to raise nearly US$7 billion through share sales, as the rapidly growing economy fuels demand for capital. This major capital-raising effort is a sign that the tightly controlled sector is beginning to open up, allowing foreign investors to expand their presence. While Vietnam's banking industry has seen strong growth, access has been limited in the past, with foreign ownership capped at 30% and individual stakes limited to 20%.

Recent actions from top leader To Lam, who is pushing for economic growth through major infrastructure spending, have led to a more open approach, with policymakers viewing larger foreign participation as necessary to meet growing credit demand.

Three local banks have been granted permission to increase their foreign ownership limits to 49%, while stock-market reforms have secured Vietnam's upgrade to emerging status by index provider FTSE Russell. Foreign investors, including Japan's Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp and Vietcombank's current largest foreign investor Mizuho Bank, are expressing interest in expanding their involvement in the country's banking sector.

The move comes as banks are also exploring offshore borrowing plans and considering offshore sovereign bond sales, with the government considering its first such sale since 2014. While the capital-raising drive is unlikely to significantly improve most banks' capitalization, it may create new opportunities for further large capital injections in the coming years.