Banks unlock foreign ownership headroom to attract strategic investors

Southern bank ACB has signaled it is prepared to work with partners to create synergies in finance, technology, governance, and products, while maintaining a maximum foreign ownership of 30 percent. The bank currently has a foreign ownership ratio of around 7 percent, leaving approximately 7 percent headroom for strategic investors aligning with its long-term vision.

Eximbank recently broadened access for foreign investors, and banks are intensifying efforts to attract such investors. At a recent shareholder meeting, ACB lifted its cap on foreign ownership from 6 percent to comply with the Law on Credit Institutions. Eximbank's chairman noted this change would positively impact the bank's valuation, making it more attractive to foreign investors.

However, attracting actual capital inflows depends on the bank's valuation, profitability outlook, risk profile, and partnership opportunities. VPBank's recent discussions with Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group illustrate that differences in desired ownership stakes and price expectations can pose obstacles to transactions. VPBank approved a plan to privately place more than 624.3 million shares with a foreign investor in its 2026 AGM, with the offering price determined through direct negotiations and not lower than the latest book value per share.

Other banks, including BNP Paribas, KB Kookmin Bank, and HDBank, are actively seeking foreign partners with strong financial resources and international experience. Some banks, like OCB and VIB, plan to increase capital or retain significant headroom to attract foreign investors, while not every capital-raising plan necessarily involves a new strategic shareholder.