Technology As Innovator

July 2008 witnesses a boil in personal banking services in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Many banks have been aggressively expanding their ATM network.

Dong A Bank’s CEO just claimed that their ATM network is second to Vietcombank’s in Vietnam. And this is true. The navy shade of Dong A ATM can found spotted on many corners along main streets.

Following right after Dong A are the light-blue ACB, the red-blue Vietinbank and another red-blue BIDV.

2. ANZ does like no other with their impressive home banking service

ANZ banking consultants provide consulting services at customers’ home on calls and free of charge.

3. HSBC eventually accelerated in their personal banking expansion

Their target is the mid-high income class with salary from $1,000 up. The ATM network also grew steadily with over 100 ATMs. [Link]

4. Interest rate for VND rised to nearly 19%

Was it innovation or experience?

In the context of financial difficulties in Vietnam in recent months, many banks especially foreign-invested have made bold moves. Some of them might be perceived as innovative. However, these practices are hard results from the experience of their long histories in more developed markets.

What next?

Welcoming August 2008, the goggles shall continue to be on CPI, the fluctuating stock market and especially gold. Real-estate, for the mean time, might enjoy a short rest.

What personal banking service are you using in Vietnam? How happy are you with your current bank? What services do you wish your bank had provided?