Vietnam is forecasted to be one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia and the world. To understand the dynamics behind Vietnam’s miracle growth, Vietcetera meets with business leaders every week to discuss the country’s future growth prospects. We also learn how they build and manage teams and why they think innovation will be key to Vietnam’s role in the world order. You can find more information for this Podcast at https://vietcetera.com/en
Over the past three decades, Vietnam has undergone a significant structural transformation, evolving from an early-stage reform economy into an increasingly established investment market within the region. Economic growth has been accompanied by deeper global integration, sustained infrastructure development, and the continued expansion of the private sector. This evolution also brings into focus longer-term considerations around the quality of growth, governance standards, and the direction of Vietnam’s next phase of development.
From a long-term investment standpoint, Vietnam’s progress is evaluated not solely through capital inflows and growth metrics, but also through the expanding role of culture, tourism, and cuisine in shaping national positioning. At the same time, rapid growth presents structural challenges, including infrastructure capacity, income disparities, and corporate governance practices.
Join us as Dominic Scriven, Founder & Chairman of Dragon Capital Vietnam (DCVFM) — one of the longest-standing foreign investment firms in Vietnam — shares perspectives shaped by more than three decades of active market engagement. Having been present since the early 1990s, he offers a pragmatic and informed view on investment, governance, and long-term economic development across key stages of Vietnam’s transformation.
______
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Over the past three decades, Vietnam’s economy has undergone a significant transformation. From the early post–Đổi Mới years, the country has evolved into a strategic destination for foreign direct investment, an increasingly important manufacturing base, and one of Asia’s most dynamic growth markets.
In this episode, Vietcetera speaks with Dr. Khongkiat Opas Wongkarn, Founder and CEO of Asia Plus Group, who brings decades of leadership and investment experience across Southeast Asia, including deep, long-term engagement with Vietnam through multiple economic cycles. His career spans periods of volatility, expansion, and structural transition—informing how institutional leaders assess risk, capital allocation, and long-term value creation.
The conversation goes beyond headline growth to examine the structural challenges accompanying Vietnam’s rapid development, including rising costs, housing affordability, and widening income gaps. This episode offers strategic insights for investors, executives, and policymakers seeking to understand Vietnam’s growth trajectory, long-term fundamentals, and the principles that underpin sustainable leadership and investment.
___
Listen to this episode on Youtube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, many companies are exploring ways to leverage the technology to enhance strategic effectiveness. However, the real advantage lies not simply in the tools themselves, but in how organizations use their existing data - from historical performance and operational efficiency to market expansion potential. When integrated effectively, AI can offer deeper insights into opportunities and challenges, while a clear understanding of the business remains essential to success.
AI tools are most powerful when combined with human judgment. While AI can accelerate processes and improve analytical accuracy, strategic decision-making, creativity, and organizational alignment continue to rely on human thinking. It is the synergy between AI and human intelligence that enables a more holistic and sustainable approach to strategy.
Listen to Mr. Bruce Delteil, Lead of Asia Strategy Service Line, McKinsey & Company, in episode 372 of the Vietnam Innovators podcast, as he shares insights on how organizations can harness AI and data to strengthen strategic development in today’s business environment.
____
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
In the digital era, cybersecurity plays a critical role in business, especially banking, as transactions, data, and customer interactions increasingly rely on technology. Beyond protecting financial and personal information from growing cyber threats, cybersecurity teams help build secure yet seamless systems that enable smooth transactions and support long-term customer trust.
When implemented effectively, cybersecurity moves beyond being a passive defense function and becomes a strategic enabler, helping banks improve customer experience and maintain competitiveness in a digital-first environment.
To explore this role further, Vietnam Innovators Podcast – Episode 371 features a conversation with Sandro Bucchianeri, Group Chief Security Officer at NAB.
With more than 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, including 15 years in executive leadership roles such as CISO and CSO, Sandro has worked with multinational organizations, led global teams, and delivered large-scale strategic transformation programs. Combining deep expertise in risk management, security, and legal frameworks with an innovative mindset, he shares a clear and practical perspective on why cybersecurity matters—not only for organizations, but also for customer trust and experience in the digital age.
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Opella is a leading consumer healthcare company with over 100 global brands. In Vietnam, Opella is well-known for its trusted brands,including Enterogermina, Calcium Corbiere, Telfast, Lactacyd, etc. With a world-class plant and R&D center in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is one of the company’s key strategic markets. Guided by the mission “Health in Your Hands,” Opella delivers science-backed, safe, high-quality healthcare solutions that make self-care simple as it should be.
In this episode of Vietnam Innovators, we speak with Ms. Valentina Belcheva, Country Head of Opella Vietnam. With over 20 years of experience, Ms. Belcheva has led major business transformations and brand building projects across Europe.
Vietnam is the first Asian market she has led — a strategic market globally that is entering a phase of accelerated growth, where she believes Opella can create sustainable and differentiated value.
_____
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Launching a digital product is easier than ever, yet sustaining steady growth remains a major challenge. A deep understanding of user behavior and needs, combined with optimized experiences, enables business models to operate effectively without disrupting engagement and retention.
In this context, balancing revenue with user experience through high-quality ad experiences and AI doesn't just increase LTV for sustainable growth; it also streamlines resource management and boosts operational efficiency. To provide an actionable playbook for Vietnam’s rapidly evolving digital market, Google partners with Vietnam Innovators. From apps and games to e-commerce, businesses gain the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve sustainable growth, with advanced technology and advertising solutions serving as key enablers.
In episode 369 of the Vietnam Innovators podcast (English), Božo Janković, Head of Ad Monetization, GameBiz Consulting & Ömer Yakabagi, Founder, Gamigion, share in-depth insights on strategies and practical approaches for optimizing ad revenue and fostering long-term growth in the gaming industry.
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
As Vietnam emerges as a leading destination for global technology centres, innovation, creativity, and digital transformation have become central to the country’s growth story. Once a relatively young technology market, Vietnam is now demonstrating its ability to deliver advanced solutions that boost efficiency and strengthen international competitiveness.
In this context, Global Capability Centres (GCCs)—technology and operations hubs established by international corporations—are playing a key role. These centres deploy cutting-edge technology, streamline processes, and introduce innovative approaches to support global operations, while elevating Vietnam’s position in technology and innovation.
In this week’s episode of Vietnam Innovators, join host Hao Tran in conversation with Ms Hanh Tran, General Director of NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam. Tune in to hear her share the journey of bringing NAB’s Innovation Centre to Vietnam, building a world-class technology team, and developing digital solutions that power NAB’s operations worldwide.
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Amid the ongoing transformation of Vietnam's financial and capital markets, investment prospects and economic growth opportunities have become increasingly significant. Developments in supply chains, Vietnam’s strategic position within the region, and the recent FTSE upgrade collectively present a distinctive opportunity for both domestic and international investors. This period marks the entry of substantial capital flows into Vietnam, fostering the potential for sustainable advancement in the capital markets and the broader economy.
In order to fully leverage these opportunities, a thorough understanding of fundamental investment principles and sound financial management practices is paramount. Discipline, authenticity, and a client-centered approach are essential for constructing effective strategies, mitigating risks, and navigating a rapidly evolving market. Mastering these principles is critical for transforming challenges into competitive advantages and capitalizing on opportunities in a sustainable manner.
In today’s episode of Vietnam Innovators, Thomas Nguyen, Managing Director & Chief Global Market Officer, SSI Securities Corporation, provides in-depth insights on investment strategy, risk management, and financial discipline.
____
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Amid Vietnam’s rapid economic and social transformation since the late 1990s, stories of resilience, opportunity, and positive change have become an integral part of the country’s development journey. From a nation where the majority of people once lived day to day through manual labour, Vietnam has gradually created opportunities for young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to access education, vocational training, and essential skills for the future.In this context, sustainable support models have also emerged, laying the foundation for broader social and workforce development. Among them, KOTO, founded by CEO Jimmy Pham, has become a pioneering organization, focusing on vocational training in the hospitality industry while also nurturing life skills and providing career guidance to prepare youth for professional work environments.Join host Hao Tran in a conversation with Founder and CEO, KOTO - Jimmy Pham, as he shares the journey of building the organization and his insights on vocational training and career development.
___
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
As digital transformation accelerates globally, Vietnam is emerging as a regional hub for technology and creative talent. A young and skilled workforce, combined with a rapidly expanding startup ecosystem, has positioned Vietnam as an attractive destination for investment in data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. These drivers are fueling widespread digitalization across industries, particularly in the financial and banking sectors.The presence of global financial and technology corporations in Vietnam plays a crucial role in connecting local talent with international standards. Establishing innovation and technology centers by multinational banks not only generates large-scale employment opportunities but also transfers knowledge, modern processes, and operational culture — enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness on the global technology map.In this week’s episode of Vietnam Innovators (English), host Hao Tran speaks with Patrick Wright, Group Executive for Technology & Enterprise Operations at National Australia Bank (NAB). Patrick shares the story behind building NAB’s Innovation Center in Vietnam, his perspective on Vietnam’s strategic role in the bank’s global technology ecosystem, and his reflections on leadership, innovation velocity, and the future of banking in the age of AI.
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]
Vietnam is witnessing a significant advancement in its digital economy, where technology and a culture of innovation have emerged as pivotal drivers of growth. Across sectors ranging from gaming and digital content creation to essential applications, domestic technology enterprises and entrepreneurs are not only aligning with global trends but actively shaping them. Within a few years, numerous Vietnamese game and app development studios have evolved from modest beginnings into internationally recognized organizations, exemplifying strategic vision and a resolute ambition to expand.
However, this remarkable progress presents a deeper challenge: converting creativity into a sustainable and scalable business model. From enhancing user experiences and harnessing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to establishing sophisticated advertising ecosystems, this endeavor requires strategic insight and the capacity to adapt swiftly to evolving circumstances.
In this episode of Vietnam Innovators Podcast, we are joined by Daphne Tan, Director for Global Partnerships, Sell-Side Monetization at Google, and Quyet Phung, CEO of XGame Studio Vietnam. They reflect on their journey from an initial survival phase to realizing aspirations on a global stage, offering nuanced perspectives on entrepreneurship and the enduring power of conviction in achieving sustainable success.
---
Listen to this episode on YouTube
And explore many amazing articles about the pioneers at: https://vietcetera.com/vn/bo-suu-tap/vietnam-innovator
Feel free to leave any questions or invitations for business cooperation at [email protected]