Log in
Business

Vietnam’s banks requested tighter control over corporate bonds

In the first six months of 2019, total corporate bond issuance reached VND116 trillion (US$5 billion), up 7.4% year-on-year, including VND36.7 trillion (US$1.58 billion) from commercial banks, and VND22.12 trillion (US$953.53 million) from realty firms, among others.

The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the country’s central bank, has requested domestic commercial banks to control risks related to corporate bonds investments. 
 
Illustrative photo.
Illustrative photo.
According to the SBV, there are potential risks in corporate bonds investments by commercial banks since the start of 2019, particularly as the funds set aside for such investments make up a big proportion in total assets and continue to rise. 

The SBV pointed out a large amount of capital pouring into the real estate and construction sector, in spite of the fact that realty firms are facing difficulties in operation.

Moreover, certain banks have been investing in corporate bonds issued for debt rollover, which has now been forbidden by the SBV to ensure safety in banking operation. 

The SBV requested commercial banks to tighten their management in corporate bond investments in the real estate sector or for the purpose of capital mobilization of issuers which are realty firms. 

More importantly, banks have to step up efforts to supervise the cash flow after lending, so that they could detect irregularities of the repayment capabilities of enterprises, as well as internal violations within the banks themselves.

In the first six months of 2019, total corporate bond issuance reached VND116 trillion (US$5 billion), up 7.4% year-on-year, including VND36.7 trillion (US$1.58 billion) or 36% of the total from commercial banks, and VND22.12 trillion (US$953.53 million) or 19% from realty firms, among others. 

The average coupon rate of corporate bonds is in a range of 9.5% - 11% per year, which is 0.5 percentage points higher than the rates levels offered by commercial banks. 

As of the end of June, the capitalization of Vietnam’s corporate bond market was equal to 10.22% of the country's GDP, up 21% year-on-year and exceeding the target of 7% of GDP set for 2020. 

Deputy Minister Vuong Dinh Hue said the local corporate bond market has been growing at a rapid rate due to huge capital needs of the businesses. 

Meanwhile, the government has tightened credit growth quota, especially in risky sectors such as real estate. 

Hue said the strong growth of the corporate bond market in the January – June period has laid solid foundation for a capital channel to come into being in mid- and long-terms for enterprises, relieving pressures for banks. 

Moreover, the maturity period of corporate bonds is lengthy, of which the 5-year maturity period accounted for 66% of total bonds issued, with the majority of investors being organizations, while individuals made up 6.1% of the total. 

Hue, nevertheless, noted that without appropriate supervision of corporate bond issuances could lead to risks to the credit market and the macro economy. 
Reactions:
Share:
Trending
Most Viewed
Inclusive innovation must give everyone equal voice, experts say at TECHFEST Vietnam 2025

Inclusive innovation must give everyone equal voice, experts say at TECHFEST Vietnam 2025

Open innovation is becoming a cornerstone of Vietnam’s development strategy, as policymakers, experts and international partners emphasize people-centered collaboration to tackle inequality, climate change and urbanization through inclusive, technology-driven solutions showcased at TECHFEST Vietnam 2025.

Vietnam attracts $400 million in venture capital as tech startups surge

Vietnam attracts $400 million in venture capital as tech startups surge

Vietnam’s startup ecosystem continues to expand rapidly, with strong venture capital inflows and fast growth in digital, AI and green technologies, reinforcing the country’s appeal to global investors.

Vietnamese policymakers push for early launch of gold exchange

Vietnamese policymakers push for early launch of gold exchange

A transparent gold exchange would not only offer a safe investment channel for the public but also provide a foundation for Vietnam to become a regional hub for jewelry manufacturing and exports.

Rosatom commits to advanced-technology Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear plant in Vietnam

Rosatom commits to advanced-technology Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear plant in Vietnam

Rosatom will transfer technology, localize nuclear products in Vietnam and support the development of the country’s nuclear science and industry for peaceful purposes.

Hanoi accelerates innovation reforms to become favorite destinations for investors, technology talents

Hanoi accelerates innovation reforms to become favorite destinations for investors, technology talents

Hanoi is pushing forward a wide range of innovation-driven reforms and investment initiatives as it works to become one of the world’s most attractive destinations for high-tech and strategic investors.

Vietnam mulls sharp rise in casino entry fee for locals

Vietnam mulls sharp rise in casino entry fee for locals

Such higher rates are intended to discourage individuals without adequate financial capacity from entering casinos.

Vietnam’s export strength in 2025 builds solid momentum for 2026 growth

Vietnam’s export strength in 2025 builds solid momentum for 2026 growth

With trade turnover nearing the US$900-billion mark, Vietnam enters 2026 with renewed confidence despite global volatility, rising trade barriers and shifting supply chains. Deputy Director of the Import–Export Department Tran Thanh Hai has outlined the drivers of this growth and the priorities for sustaining momentum next year.

Vietnam sets new trade record as import–export turnover nears $840 billion

Vietnam sets new trade record as import–export turnover nears $840 billion

Vietnam recorded its highest-ever trade performance in January-November as import–export turnover surged, driven by strong export growth and a continued trade surplus.