Vietnam financial and securities market regulatory reforms

The Vietnamese Ministry of Finance is pursuing several regulatory reforms aimed at strengthening the nation’s financial and securities markets.

Initial proposals focused on enhancing the legal framework for auditing and derivatives. This included drafting a circular to improve state management of independent auditing for public interest entities, with provisions to suspend or revoke the status of auditors for poor service or serious errors. Additionally, the Ministry proposed expanding the derivatives market by introducing stock index options, such as call and put options.

Subsequent developments indicate a push toward easing market entry for foreign investors and fostering technological innovation. Proposals to amend the Law on Investment include removing joint venture requirements in certain sectors to allow up to 100% foreign ownership, though the State Bank of Vietnam has raised concerns regarding potential capital volatility in financial services and auditing. Furthermore, the National Assembly Standing Committee has expressed support for a regulatory sandbox under the Securities Law, intended to allow fintech companies and fund managers to test new technologies and automated asset management models within a controlled environment.