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Category: Finance

Retail News Asia is committed to providing both local and global retailers with the latest Finance news throughout the Asian market. This on a daily base.

  • UBS Unveils New Managing Directors: A 11% Drop from Last Year Reveals Strategic Shift

    UBS Unveils New Managing Directors: A 11% Drop from Last Year Reveals Strategic Shift

    UBS, the banking behemoth based in Zurich, has unveiled its new cohort of managing directors. With a total of 155 appointments, this year’s list is smaller than the preceding year’s, representing an 11% drop from the 174 managing directors appointed last year.

    The geographic distribution of the new managing directors reveals a global spread. Switzerland had the highest number, with 43 individuals, closely followed by the Asia Pacific region, which had 40. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa had a combined total of 36, as did the Americas. In a noteworthy mention, 92 financial advisors in the Americas have been elevated to the position of managing director within the wealth management division.

    In a statement from the bank, it was noted that the new managing directors embody the robust culture of the institution, as well as uphold the three key tenets of success. The bank emphasized the pivotal role these directors will play in strengthening the firm. The efforts will focus on consolidating the bank’s industry-leading position and delivering superior value for its clients.

    Questions & Answers

    How many new managing directors have been appointed by UBS this year?
    UBS has announced the appointment of 155 new managing directors.

    How does this year’s number of new managing directors compare to last year?
    This year has seen an 11% decrease in the number of managing directors compared to the previous year, which had 174 appointments.

    Which regions have the most significant number of new managing directors?
    Switzerland leads with 43 appointments, followed by Asia Pacific with 40, and Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Americas, each with 36.

  • Vietnam Gold Prices Soar to Record High, Outpacing Global Bullion Rates

    Vietnam Gold Prices Soar to Record High, Outpacing Global Bullion Rates

    The price of gold has seen a notable increase in Vietnam, with a jump recorded on Monday morning. This rise further extends the difference between the local and global bullion rates, establishing a new record.

    Increase in Gold Prices in Vietnam

    Saigon Jewelry Company’s gold bars have seen a 1.06% increase in price, reaching VND181.2 million (US$6,985.08) per tael, equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces. Similar price adjustments have been mirrored by other sellers in the industry.

    At present, the price of local bullion is VND24 million per tael higher than the global prices, marking the most significant difference on record. Notably, the price of gold rings increased at the same rate, reaching VND180.7 million per tael.

    Global Gold and Silver Market Trends

    Internationally, gold and silver have continued to make gains. This comes as the U.S. dollar weakens, making metals priced in the greenback more affordable for international buyers.

    Spot gold increased by 1.4% to $5,029.09 per ounce, following an almost 4% rise on Friday. Concurrently, U.S. gold futures for April experienced a 1.4% gain, reaching $5,051.0 per ounce.

    The U.S. dollar is currently at its lowest level since the 4th of February. In the near future, investors predict at least two 25-basis-point rate cuts in 2026, with the initial cut expected in June. Notably, non-yielding bullion performs well in low-interest-rate environments.

    Questions & Answers

    What percentage increase have gold prices seen in Vietnam?
    Gold prices in Vietnam have seen an increase of 1.06%.

    What is the current price of gold bars from Saigon Jewelry Company?
    The price of gold bars from Saigon Jewelry Company is currently at VND181.2 million (US$6,985.08) per tael.

    How has the U.S. dollar’s performance affected the global gold and silver markets?
    The weakening of the U.S. dollar has made metals priced in the greenback more affordable for international buyers, leading to an increase in the global prices of gold and silver.

  • DBS Shatters Records with Pre-Tax Profit Surge Despite Global Tax Impact

    DBS Shatters Records with Pre-Tax Profit Surge Despite Global Tax Impact

    DBS, a Singapore-based bank, has reported a record pre-tax profit despite the overall net profit experiencing a decrease due to the institution of the new global minimum tax.

    In the year 2025, DBS reported a 3% decline in net profit, amounting to S$11 billion ($8.7 billion). However, the bank’s return on equity and return on tangible equity saw growth, reaching 16.2% and 17.8% respectively.

    Growth in Total Income

    DBS also demonstrated a rise in total income by 3% to a record S$22.9 billion. Key factors contributing to this increase included fee income and treasury customer sales. The bank’s wealth management sector lead the way in these gains, and the markets trading income was the highest observed since 2021. Notably, the cost-income ratio maintained stability at 40%.

    Influence of the Global Minimum Tax

    When considering the impact of the recently introduced global minimum tax of 15%, the bank’s pre-tax profit was slightly higher, reaching an all-time high of S$13.1 billion.

    DBS CEO, Tan Su Shan, expressed confidence in the bank’s performance. He emphasized the bank’s adaptability in capturing market opportunities and meeting client needs as crucial to its successful performance. With ongoing rate pressures and geopolitical tensions, he acknowledged these challenges but was optimistic about the bank’s strong balance sheet and the quality of its franchise to provide a stable foundation for the coming year.

    Questions & Answers

    What were DBS’s net profits for 2025?
    DBS reported a 3% decline in net profits for the year 2025, amounting to S$11 billion ($8.7 billion).

    What contributed to the growth in the bank’s total income?
    The growth in the bank’s total income was largely due to fee income and treasury customer sales, particularly from the wealth management sector.

    What is DBS CEO’s outlook for the coming year?
    Despite acknowledging ongoing rate pressures and geopolitical tensions, DBS CEO, Tan Su Shan, remains optimistic about the bank’s strong balance sheet and the quality of its franchise as a solid foundation for the future.

  • Thailand Sparkles as Southeast Asia’s Gold Demand Hotspot, Dethrones Vietnam

    Thailand Sparkles as Southeast Asia’s Gold Demand Hotspot, Dethrones Vietnam

    In 2025, Thailand outperformed all Southeast Asian nations in the purchase of gold bars and coins, signaling a surge in demand. According to the World Gold Council, total purchases in the country amounted to 51.4 tonnes, which represented approximately 36% of the region’s overall demand. This significant uptake in gold was the highest the country had seen in seven years, valued at over US$6 billion. As a result, Thailand surpassed Vietnam, the previous leading gold market in the region, which had recorded a demand of 42.1 tonnes in 2024.

    Regional Uptake of Gold

    Collectively, five prominent Southeast Asian gold markets witnessed a more than 15% surge in the purchase of bars and coins last year. The total demand reached a new nine-year high at 139 tonnes. Vietnam trailed Thailand, securing second place with a demand of 36.1 tonnes. However, it was the sole country to report a downturn in gold sales, with a 14% decrease.

    During the last quarter of 2025, Vietnam’s gold trading shrank for the sixth consecutive quarter, hitting its lowest point in almost half a decade. Supply shortages were identified as a principal reason for this downturn. The country experienced a scarcity of gold bars and a sudden increase in 24K ring demand, causing prices to escalate dramatically and widen the disparity with international rates. Consequently, Vietnam’s gold prices soared by 81% in the previous year and 13.5% in the current year.

    Regional Gold Demand

    Despite these circumstances, Thailand and Vietnam combined accounted for two-thirds of Southeast Asia’s gold demand. The third highest demand was from Indonesia, which saw a 29% surge in sales to 31.6 tonnes, marking an unprecedented volume in 12 years.

    Malaysia claimed the fourth position, with a demand increase of 37% to 10.3 tonnes, likewise a 12-year record. Singapore, ranking fifth, marked the most significant growth in the region at 48%, with a record volume of 9.6 tonnes sold.

    Globally, the demand for gold bars and coins reached 1,374 tonnes or $154 billion. China and India consistently remained the two primary gold markets. There was a 28% rise in demand for gold bars and coins in China in 2025 compared to 2024, while India registered a 17% increase during the same period. Together, these two nations represented more than half of the total global demand for bars and coins.

    Questions & Answers

    Which country led Southeast Asia in gold demand in 2025?
    Thailand led Southeast Asia in gold demand in 2025, with purchases totaling 51.4 tonnes.

    What factors contributed to the decline in Vietnam’s gold trading?
    A shortage in the supply of gold bars and an increase in demand for 24K rings were key factors that contributed to the decline in Vietnam’s gold trading.

    Which countries were the two largest global markets for gold in 2025?
    China and India were the two largest global markets for gold in 2025, accounting for more than half of the total global demand for bars and coins.

  • DBS Hong Kong Welcomes Xu Qing as New Credit Chief for Booming North Asia Market

    DBS Hong Kong Welcomes Xu Qing as New Credit Chief for Booming North Asia Market

    DBS Hong Kong, a subsidiary of Singapore’s DBS Bank, has announced the appointment of Xu Qing as the Chief Credit Officer for North Asia and Managing Director, Senior Risk Executive for Hong Kong. Mr. Qing’s appointment came into effect on February 1st.

    In his new roles, Mr. Qing will be responsible for overseeing all credit and risk functions across Hong Kong, mainland China, and Taiwan. He will also serve as a member of the Hong Kong management committee. To assume these roles, Qing has relocated from mainland China to Hong Kong.

    Mr. Qing brings a wealth of experience to these roles, with a career spanning over 20 years covering markets, credit, and operational risks, as well as business development. His journey with DBS began in 2015 when he joined DBS China. His exceptional performance saw him rise to the position of Chief Risk Officer for the unit, and subsequently, he also served as the Deputy CEO of the unit since November 2019. Prior to his engagement with DBS, Mr. Qing held senior positions at the ING Group and Standard Chartered.

    Reacting to the appointment, Sebastian Paredes, CEO of DBS Hong Kong and Head of North Asia expressed his delight. He said, “We are thrilled to have Xu Qing as part of the Hong Kong management team. His deep expertise in risk management, strong international perspective, proven leadership, and extensive experience across the North Asia markets will be invaluable to the team.”

    Questions & Answers

    Who has been appointed as the new Chief Credit Officer for North Asia at DBS Hong Kong?
    Xu Qing has been appointed as the new Chief Credit Officer for North Asia at DBS Hong Kong.

    What are the key responsibilities of Mr. Qing in his new roles?
    Mr. Qing will oversee all credit and risk functions in Hong Kong, mainland China, and Taiwan. He will also serve as a member of the Hong Kong management committee.

    What is Mr. Qing’s background prior to this appointment?
    Mr. Qing has over 20 years of experience across markets, credit, and operational risks as well as business development. He joined DBS China in 2015 and has held senior roles at ING Group and Standard Chartered.

  • Standard Chartered Revolutionizes Transaction Banking with New AI-powered Platform

    Standard Chartered Revolutionizes Transaction Banking with New AI-powered Platform

    Standard Chartered, a UK-based banking and financial services company, has announced the rollout of an artificial intelligence (AI) enabled platform aimed at accelerating and customizing transaction banking services for its clientele.

    The innovative platform is designed to aid relationship managers, sales teams, and proposal managers in swiftly accessing, customizing, and delivering transaction banking services to corporate and institutional clients, according to an official statement.

    Three primary features distinguish the newly launched platform. Initially, the platform automates and augments the process of accessing, selecting, and personalizing client solutions. Secondly, it functions as a unified access point for the most recent product and market capabilities. Finally, it is designed for continuous improvement and innovation, effortlessly integrating with other platforms and technologies to guarantee long-term value and impact.

    Mark Troutman, global head of transaction banking corporate sales at Standard Chartered, commented on the new development. He noted that fulfilling clients’ expectations for prompt, accurate, and highly personalized responses can be demanding on a large scale. However, by providing their teams with the advanced AI capabilities through this new digital platform, they can better comprehend client needs and deliver more pertinent, tailored solutions.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of Standard Chartered’s new AI-powered platform?
    The platform is aimed at accelerating and customizing transaction banking services for its corporate and institutional clients. It is designed to aid relationship managers, sales teams, and proposal managers in swiftly accessing, customizing, and delivering these services.

    What are the primary features of the new platform?
    The platform automates and enhances the process of accessing, selecting, and customizing client solutions. It also functions as a unified access point for the most recent product and market capabilities. Moreover, it is designed to enable continuous improvement and innovation.

    How does this new platform benefit Standard Chartered’s client services?
    By equipping Standard Chartered’s teams with advanced AI capabilities through this platform, they can better understand client needs and provide more relevant, tailored solutions. This is particularly valuable in an environment where clients expect fast, accurate, and highly personalized services.

  • Vietnam: The Lone Decline in Southeast Asia’s 2025 Gold Rush Amidst Supply Shortages

    Vietnam: The Lone Decline in Southeast Asia’s 2025 Gold Rush Amidst Supply Shortages

    In 2025, Vietnam stood out as the sole Southeast Asian nation to experience a decline in its sales of gold bars and coins. The volume experienced a 14% decrease from the previous year, falling to 36.1 metric tons, in spite of robust consumer interest.

    Gold Trading Contraction in Vietnam

    The World Gold Council has reported a consistent contraction in Vietnam’s gold trading for six consecutive quarters up until the end of 2025, landing at a near-five-year low. A primary factor contributing to this downward trend has been identified as short supply.

    Shortages in the supply of gold bars and a sudden surge in the demand for 24K rings induced a sharp increase in prices. This caused a significant divergence from global rates, with bullion prices experiencing a rise of 81% in the previous year and 25% in the current year.

    Comparison with Other ASEAN Countries

    Contrastingly, most of the ASEAN member countries experienced a surge in demand for bars and coins, reaching multi-year highs. Thailand was the regional leader in terms of gold bar and coin purchases, boasting a 29% increase at 51.4 tons. Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore also reported growth of 29%, 37%, and 48% respectively.

    The State Bank of Vietnam has highlighted the fact that Vietnam is not a gold-producing country and primarily relies on imports, which lends itself to a restricted supply given foreign currency is typically reserved for more pressing needs.

    In the previous year, the government made the decision to permit private gold producers who meet specific capital requirements to operate. However, up until now, no licenses have been issued.

    Global Gold Demand

    On a global scale, gold demand experienced a 1% rise to reach 5,002 tons, setting a new record. This is largely attributed to the continuous geopolitical and economic uncertainty, which has led investors to seek refuge in this safe-haven metal.

    Questions & Answers

    Why did Vietnam experience a drop in gold bar and coin sales in 2025?
    The significant decline in sales is attributed to supply shortages, despite strong consumer demand.

    How did other ASEAN member countries fare in comparison to Vietnam?
    Contrary to Vietnam, most ASEAN member countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, saw a surge in demand for gold bars and coins, reaching multi-year highs.

    What measures has the Vietnamese government taken to address the issue of gold supply?
    The government has granted permission to private gold producers meeting certain capital requirements to operate, in an effort to address the issue of gold supply. However, as of now, no licenses have been issued.

  • Vietnam’s VN-Index Plunges: Longest Losing Streak in Seven Years Sparks Market Concern

    Vietnam’s VN-Index Plunges: Longest Losing Streak in Seven Years Sparks Market Concern

    The VN-Index of Vietnam, which is the country’s benchmark index, experienced a decline for the seventh consecutive session on Wednesday. This represents the most extended losing streak since 2018’s final quarter. The VN-Index wrapped up the session at 1,802.91, marking a decrease of 1.51% or 27.59 points. From the beginning of the previous week, the index underwent a loss of 100 points.

    Trade Volume Increase and Major Price Movements

    A significant increase of 34% was recorded in the trading volume on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange, reaching VND33.7 trillion (equivalent to US$1.29 billion).

    The VN-30 basket, which is a compilation of the 30 most significant capped stocks, witnessed a fall in 16 tickers. The VIC ticker of the private conglomerate Vingroup reached its lowest price point.

    In the realm of retail real estate, Vincom Retail’s VRE experienced a decrease of 5.8%, while the VHM of property titan Vinhomes suffered a reduction of 5.7% in its closing price.

    On the more positive side, eleven blue-chip stocks recorded gains. Among them, MSN of the Masan Group conglomerate saw a rise of 3.7%, FPT of tech powerhouse FPT Corporation increased by 2.4%, and GAS of the state-owned Petrovietnam Gas experienced a boost of 2.3%.

    Foreign Investor Activity and Other Indexes

    Foreign investors ended up as net sellers, with a net selling volume reaching VND1.78 trillion. This selling activity mainly targeted HDB of HDBank and ACB of Asia Commercial Bank.

    Taking a look at other indexes, the HNX-Index, associated with stocks on the Hanoi Stock Exchange, which mainly includes mid and small cap stocks, recorded a fall of 0.15%. Meanwhile, the UPCoM-Index, representing the Unlisted Public Companies Market, saw an increase of 0.62%.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the VN-Index?
    The VN-Index is a benchmark index in Vietnam that represents the performance of the country’s stock market.

    Which stocks experienced a price decrease?
    The VIC of Vingroup, VRE of Vincom Retail, and VHM of Vinhomes were among the stocks that saw a decrease in price.

    Which stocks saw a price increase?
    Among the stocks that recorded a price increase were MSN of the Masan Group, FPT of FPT Corporation, and GAS of Petrovietnam Gas.

  • Record-Breaking Silver Prices in Vietnam Surge Amid Global Safe-Haven Demand

    Record-Breaking Silver Prices in Vietnam Surge Amid Global Safe-Haven Demand

    On Monday morning, silver prices in Vietnam hit an all-time high as global demand for safe-haven assets surged. The price of Phu Quy silver jumped 6% to VND4.24 million (US$162) per tael, equivalent to VND112.8 million per kilogram.

    Silver Prices Surge in Vietnam

    Since the start of the year, the cost of this white metal in Vietnam has seen an increase of 35%. This rise parallels a global trend, where the price of spot silver increased by 4.57% to $107.65 per ounce. This sharp increase comes after it hit an unprecedented high of $108.60 per ounce. The escalation can be attributed to investors seeking refuge in safe-haven assets due to escalating geopolitical uncertainties.

    Silver Crosses the $100 Mark

    On Friday, silver prices exceeded the $100 mark for the first time ever. This rise builds on last year’s significant increase of 147%. The astounding growth is a result of an influx of retail investors and momentum-driven purchases, exacerbating a longstanding period of scarcity in the physical markets for silver.

    Questions & Answers

    What is a safe-haven asset?
    A safe-haven asset is a type of investment that is expected to hold or increase its value during market turbulence. These assets are typically sought after by investors to limit their exposure to losses during market downturns.

    What caused the surge in silver prices in Vietnam?
    The surge in silver prices in Vietnam can be attributed to an increase in global demand for safe-haven assets, as well as geopolitical uncertainties.

    What factors contributed to silver prices crossing the $100 mark?
    The surge beyond the $100 mark was driven by an influx of retail investors and momentum-driven purchases, which intensified an already present scarcity in the physical markets for silver.

  • Revolut Gears Up for Swiss Expansion, Seeking Top-Tier Executives for Groundbreaking Move

    Revolut Gears Up for Swiss Expansion, Seeking Top-Tier Executives for Groundbreaking Move

    Revolut, the digital banking platform, has unveiled ambitious plans for expansion in the Swiss market. The company’s General Manager for Switzerland, Julian Biegmann, declared that Revolut is “building the future of Swiss banking” and announced an extensive recruitment drive aimed at elevating the company’s presence in Switzerland.

    Senior Positions Open for Recruitment

    The available roles currently being advertised by Revolut include Head of Risk, Head of Legal, Treasury Manager, Tax Manager, Business Risk Manager, and a Strategy & Operations Manager catering to both retail and business clients. This level of seniority and the range of positions available are unprecedented for Revolut within the Swiss market, marking a significant shift in the company’s approach.

    Focused on Regulatory Compliance

    Interestingly, many of the vacant roles are concentrated on regulatory, legal, and risk management functions. This emphasis is seen by industry insiders as an intentional move by Revolut, signalling that the company is establishing a solid foundation for a more independent operation in Switzerland.

    For years, there’s been ongoing speculation in the Swiss banking and fintech circles that Revolut may be considering applying for a Swiss banking license. While the company has not made any public confirmations, the current wave of recruitment lends more credibility to these rumours.

    Biegmann emphasized in his announcement that Revolut is seeking candidates who thrive in “fast-paced environments” and are eager to have a significant “impact at scale.” He further stated that all applications are being processed solely through Revolut’s official recruitment portal.

    Presently, Revolut services a substantial and expanding Swiss client base under its European license framework. The company’s long-rumored larger ambitions now seem to be materializing into tangible organizational steps within Switzerland.

    Questions & Answers

    What positions is Revolut currently hiring for in Switzerland?
    Revolut is recruiting for several senior roles, including Head of Risk, Head of Legal, Treasury Manager, Tax Manager, Business Risk Manager, and a Strategy & Operations Manager.

    Why is the emphasis on regulatory, legal, and risk management roles significant?
    The focus on these roles suggests that Revolut is laying the groundwork for a more self-governing operation in Switzerland, possibly indicating its intention to apply for a Swiss banking license.

    What kind of candidates is Revolut seeking for these roles?
    Revolut is looking for candidates who are comfortable in dynamic, fast-paced environments and are eager to make a significant impact at scale.

  • Maybank Unveils Ambitious ‘ROAR30’ Five-Year Strategy, Aims for 14% ROE

    Maybank Unveils Ambitious ‘ROAR30’ Five-Year Strategy, Aims for 14% ROE

    Maybank, a Malaysian-based banking corporation, has recently unveiled its ambitious five-year strategy plan, dubbed “ROAR30”. The roadmap, which extends until 2030, outlines significant financial targets, including a return on equity (ROE) aim of 13-14 percent, a net interest margin that exceeds 2.05 percent, a cost-to-income ratio of 47 percent or lower, and a CASA (current account and savings account) ratio above 41 percent.

    Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, Maybank’s President and Group CEO, emphasized the importance of the bank’s core markets – Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore – as primary growth and profitability contributors. He commented, “Our regional network strategy will enable us to support our clients across various markets. We are committed to shaping a mobile workforce, fostering a transformative mindset and culture, encouraging continuous learning, implementing technology modernisation and optimising productivity and financial performance.”

    Three Strategic Pillars

    Maybank’s newly announced strategy rests on three strategic pillars.

    The first pillar involves redefining its services to provide exceptional customer experiences, positively impact society, and stimulate the real economy.

    The second pillar focuses on the expansion of four key business areas: global Islamic finance, regional wealth management, regional transactions and payments banking, and regional corporate and investment banking.

    The third and final pillar is the creation of a sustainable bank via three core strategies: nurturing an enviable workforce and organisational culture, harnessing the power of technology and artificial intelligence, and optimizing productivity and capital allocation to enhance performance.

    Khairussaleh concluded, “Through ROAR30, Maybank aims to generate meaningful impact and ensure sustainable value creation for all stakeholders, spanning our customers, communities, and the economies we serve.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is Maybank’s new strategic plan named?
    The new strategic plan is named “ROAR30”.

    What are the three strategic pillars outlined in the “ROAR30” plan?
    The three pillars are redefining services to provide exceptional customer experiences, expanding four key business areas, and creating a sustainable bank through staff development, technology use, and productivity optimization.

    What are some of the financial goals set by Maybank in the “ROAR30” plan?
    Some of the key financial targets include a return on equity aim of 13-14 percent, a net interest margin that exceeds 2.05 percent, a cost-to-income ratio of 47 percent or lower, and a CASA (current account and savings account) ratio above 41 percent.

  • OCBC Pioneers New Securities Financing Division to Optimize Lending Solutions

    OCBC Pioneers New Securities Financing Division to Optimize Lending Solutions

    Singapore’s OCBC Bank has established a new division that is committed to providing loans against idle securities in customer accounts.

    Enabling Efficient Use of Idle Securities

    OCBC Bank has introduced a dedicated securities financing unit that will operate within the global markets division. This unit’s main function will be to activate lendable securities like equities and fixed income, which are held by customers of OCBC Bank and its affiliate businesses OCBC Securities, Bank of Singapore, and Great Eastern.

    The financing unit will be under the leadership of Jansen Chua, the newly appointed head of securities finance. Chua, who officially joined the bank on January 2, will directly report to Kenneth Lai, the head of global markets.

    Chua brings to the table 25 years of international experience spanning across the United States, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. His most recent role was at State Street Bank & Trust Company, where he was the senior managing director and head of financing solutions for the Asia Pacific region. He has led teams in trading, sales, customer management, and product development.

    The Increasing Demand for Securities Financing

    Globally, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for securities financing. More and more buy-side firms are looking for ways to optimize liquidity, fulfill collateral requirements, and put in place hedging strategies in fluctuating markets.

    In 2025, global securities lending revenues hit an all-time high of $15.3 billion, according to EquiLend Data & Analytics.

    Accessing liquidity and effectively deploying capital has become crucial, especially given the current high market volatility. As a result, securities financing has become increasingly important, and there has been a correspondingly significant rise in demand from institutional customers, according to Lai.

    With Chua’s leadership, the bank is well-positioned to assist its customers as they implement trading and hedging strategies, meet settlement obligations, and optimize capital usage.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the new securities financing unit?

    The new unit has been established to mobilize lendable securities such as equities and fixed income held by customers, allowing for lending against these idle securities.

    Who will lead the new securities financing unit?

    The unit will be under the leadership of Jansen Chua, the head of securities finance at OCBC.

    What factors have contributed to the increased demand for securities financing?

    The growing demand is largely due to buy-side firms seeking to optimize liquidity, meet collateral obligations, and implement effective hedging strategies amidst volatile market conditions.

  • Gold Prices Skyrocket Globally and in Vietnam: Impact of US Tariffs and Market Jitters

    Gold Prices Skyrocket Globally and in Vietnam: Impact of US Tariffs and Market Jitters

    On Tuesday afternoon, the price of gold in Vietnam hit a new historical high as global rates also achieved unprecedented levels. The price of a gold bar from Saigon Jewelry Company rose by 0.67%, reaching VND166.1 million (US$6,324.12) per tael, equivalent to approximately 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces.

    The price of a gold ring similarly increased by 0.80%, costing VND163.5 million per tael. Since the start of the year, gold prices in Vietnam have seen an 8.7% increase.

    Internationally, the situation mirrored Vietnam’s, with gold surpassing $4,700 per ounce for the first time on Tuesday. Concurrently, silver traded near a record high. This sharp increase in precious metal prices can be attributed to the heightened global tension due to the threats by U.S. President Donald Trump of imposing additional tariffs on European allies. This political unrest has led to a surge in investment in safe-haven assets such as gold and silver.

    The spot price of gold rose by 1%, reaching $4,717.03 per ounce after achieving a record high of $4,721.91 earlier in the day. U.S. gold futures for February delivery also saw a significant increase, rising by 2.8% to $4,722.70 per ounce.

    Since the commencement of President Trump’s second term a year ago, gold prices have rallied more than 70%. Similarly, silver has seen a remarkable surge of more than 200%.

    Questions & Answers

    What caused the surge in gold prices?
    The surge in gold prices can be attributed to the heightened global tension due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of imposing additional tariffs on European allies, sparking a rush into safe-haven assets like gold and silver.

    How much did gold prices in Vietnam increase?
    The price of a gold bar from Saigon Jewelry Company rose by 0.67%, reaching VND166.1 million (US$6,324.12) per tael. Since the start of the year, gold prices in Vietnam have seen an 8.7% increase.

    What has been the effect on silver prices?
    Similar to gold, silver has also seen a significant increase in value. It traded near a record high and has seen a surge of more than 200% since the start of President Trump’s second term a year ago.

  • US Dollar Takes a Dip: Vietnamese Dong Gains Amid Global Selloff

    US Dollar Takes a Dip: Vietnamese Dong Gains Amid Global Selloff

    On Tuesday morning, the U.S. dollar experienced a minor decrease in value against the Vietnamese dong. This occurred concurrently with a global sell-off. Vietcombank, an established bank in Vietnam, recorded a 0.007% drop in the greenback, selling it at VND26,386.

    The Dollar in Other Markets

    In contrast, on the black market, the U.S. dollar saw a considerable increase, jumping 0.95% to VND26,550.

    Global Impact

    The global impact was also noticeable. The U.S. dollar fell to its lowest level in a week during early trading on Tuesday. This decline was propelled by threats issued by the White House against the European Union concerning the future of Greenland. This situation led to a wide-ranging sell-off across U.S. stocks and government bonds.

    The dollar index, a measure of the U.S. dollar’s value against six major world currencies, also experienced a dip. The index dropped 0.1% to 99.004, marking its lowest level since January 14. This was due to investor concerns about potential exposure to the U.S. markets.

    The Dollar and the Yen

    Regarding the Japanese yen, the dollar remained steady, with an exchange rate of 158.175 yen. This stability came after Sanae Takaichi, the Japanese Prime Minister, announced snap elections scheduled for February 8. Takaichi’s promise to halt an 8% sales tax on food for two years has turned the spotlight on Japan’s precarious public finances.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the impact of the White House’s threats against the European Union?
    The threats triggered a broad sell-off across U.S. stocks and government bonds, which led to a decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar.

    How did the dollar fare against the Vietnamese dong?
    The U.S. dollar experienced a slight decrease against the Vietnamese dong, with Vietcombank selling the greenback 0.007% lower at VND26,386.

    What is the significance of the dollar index’s drop?
    The drop in the dollar index indicates a decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar compared to major world currencies. This dip reflects investor concerns about potential exposure to the U.S. markets.

  • Gold Prices Soar Globally and in Vietnam: Safe-Haven Asset Hits Record Highs amidst Trade War Uncertainty

    Gold Prices Soar Globally and in Vietnam: Safe-Haven Asset Hits Record Highs amidst Trade War Uncertainty

    Surge in Gold Prices

    On a recent Monday morning, both Vietnamese and global gold prices achieved unprecedented highs. The price of a gold bar from Saigon Jewelry Company escalated by 1.35%, reaching a high of VND165 million (US$6,280.68) per tael. This increase in price was mirrored by other vendors, who matched this rate.

    Over the course of this month, Vietnam’s local gold prices have experienced an almost 8% increase, with rates standing at VND16.5 million per tael higher than the global average.

    Elevation in Gold Ring Prices

    The cost of gold rings also experienced an upturn, with a 1.57% increase, pricing them at VND162.2 million per tael. To clarify, one tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces.

    Global Market Reactions

    Internationally, both gold and silver reached their highest-ever prices on this Monday, while oil prices remained static due to concerns about the potential impact of a full-scale trade dispute between the U.S. and Europe on global growth and demand. Such worries have emerged from the unpredictability injected into global trade by President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on eight European countries, unless the U.S. is permitted to purchase Greenland. As stocks slip and the U.S. dollar weakens broadly, the market finds itself in a state of volatility.

    “Hopes that the tariff situation has calmed down for this year have been dashed for now – and we find ourselves in the same situation as last spring,” stated chief economist Holger Schmieding of Berenberg.

    Safe-Haven Gold

    In light of such circumstances, the safe-haven asset of gold has witnessed a significant surge, with a gain of over 1% on Monday, resulting in a new record of $4,689.39 per ounce. So far this January, the value of the precious metal has risen nearly 8%, following a substantial 64% gain last year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the current surge in gold prices attributed to?
    The surge is attributed to escalating global trade uncertainties, particularly between the U.S. and Europe, which have fuelled market volatility and boosted demand for safe-haven assets like gold.

    How much has the price of gold increased in recent times?
    The price of gold has risen nearly 8% in January alone, following a 64% increase last year.

    How does the local gold price in Vietnam compare to the global rate?
    The local gold prices in Vietnam are currently VND16.5 million per tael higher than the global average.