Vietnam

• Vietnam recorded over $1 billion in total M&A deals during June, reflecting strong overall investment activity. • The technology sector remained largely absent, with only three deals totaling $0.6 million, accounting for less than 1% of the total value. • This stark disparity underscores a significant gap between the country's digital ambitions and actual investment in tech acquisitions.

• Allianz Global Investors (AllianzGI) has signed an agreement to acquire UOB Asset Management (UOBAM), the asset management arm of Singapore's UOB Group. • The deal expands AllianzGI's reach into high-growth Southeast Asian markets, specifically Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia, while scaling existing operations in Singapore, Taiwan, and Indonesia. • This acquisition is strategically significant as it increases AllianzGI's assets under management in the Asia-Pacific region to over €170 billion.

• Indonesia and Vietnam will co-host the group stage of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, while Zinedine Zidane is set to make his debut as the manager of the French national team. • In other sports updates from July 29, Myanmar and Malaysia earned dominant victories during the second round of Group B in the ASEAN Cup 2026. • Vietnam U23 has officially announced a 29-player squad to compete in the upcoming 20th Asian Games.

• India has been placed in Group A for the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, where they will compete against host nation Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. • Pakistan was drawn into Group B, facing opponents Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines in the group stage. • The tournament is split into two tiers: Division 1 matches will be hosted entirely in Indonesia, while Division 2 matches will be hosted by Hong Kong.

• Party General Secretary and State President To Lam emphasized the need to prioritize data security and the innovation ecosystem during the 14th Party Central Committee’s 3rd plenum. • Experts highlight that integrating advances in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and science and technology is critical for increasing national productivity. • These strategic focuses are viewed as essential drivers for strengthening Vietnam's self-reliance and overall global competitiveness.

• Vietnam is being urged to develop "sovereign AI" to ensure sustainable growth and maintain control over its digital infrastructure. • The initiative emphasizes the need for national autonomy over critical resources, including data, computing power, technology, and specialized human resources. • This shift is driven by the fact that data has become a strategic asset and a primary foundation for national competitiveness and socio-economic development.

• Defending champions Vietnam will begin their title defense for the Asean Hyundai Cup 2026 this Friday, July 24. • Led by coach Kim Sang-sik, the Vietnamese squad will face qualifiers Timor-Leste in their opening Group A match held in Chonburi. • The tournament features a competitive field including teams from Cambodia, Singapore, and Indonesia, marking a significant regional football event.