Investing in Vietnam Explained: Stocks, ETFs, Real Estate, and Business Opportunities

Scroll to the bottom for direct links for investing in Vietnam. 

Investing in Vietnam typically begins with understanding the country’s fast-growing economy and choosing the right entry point for your goals. Vietnam has become one of Southeast Asia’s strongest growth stories, driven by manufacturing, exports, a young workforce, and increasing foreign investment. Before investing, it’s important to decide whether you want exposure through stocks, real estate, private businesses, or indirect options such as funds and ETFs. Each path has different requirements, risks, and levels of accessibility for foreign investors.

One common way to invest in Vietnam is through the stock market. Foreigners can invest in Vietnamese companies by opening a securities trading account with a licensed Vietnamese brokerage. This usually requires a passport, a local custodian bank account, and a foreign investor trading code issued by Vietnam’s State Securities Commission. Vietnam has two main exchanges—the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange and the Hanoi Stock Exchange—where investors can buy shares in banks, energy companies, consumer goods firms, and industrial manufacturers. Some stocks have foreign ownership limits, so availability may vary depending on demand.

Another popular option is investing through Vietnam-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or mutual funds. This approach is often easier for international investors because it does not require opening accounts in Vietnam or dealing with local regulations directly. ETFs provide diversified exposure to Vietnamese companies and sectors while reducing the risk of relying on a single stock. Many investors use this method as a first step to gain exposure to Vietnam’s growth while keeping their investments simple and liquid.

Real estate investment is also attractive in Vietnam, especially in major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Foreigners are allowed to buy certain types of residential property, typically apartments in approved developments, but there are restrictions on land ownership, and the number of units foreigners can own in a single building. Real estate investors should carefully review local laws, work with reputable developers or agents, and understand long-term leasing, resale rules, and taxation before committing funds.

For more experienced investors, direct investment in Vietnamese businesses or startups is another route. Vietnam has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in technology, manufacturing, logistics, and consumer services. This type of investment often requires local partners, legal guidance, and a clear understanding of Vietnamese business culture and regulations. While the potential returns can be high, so are the risks, making due diligence essential.

Overall, investing in Vietnam works best when approached with a long-term mindset, proper research, and an understanding of local rules. Whether through stocks, funds, real estate, or businesses, Vietnam offers meaningful opportunities tied to its expanding economy, rising middle class, and increasing role in global trade.

Vietnam Stock Market & Investment Platforms

• VNDIRECT – Online Trading Platform – A licensed Vietnamese broker offering online access to stocks and securities trading. VNDIRECT – Invest in Vietnam Stocks (VNDIRECT)

• HSC ONE – Trading App – A popular digital trading platform for Vietnam’s stock market with real-time data and tools. HSC ONE Trading App (Google Play) (Google Play)

• Vietcombank Securities (VCBS) – Offers stock trading accounts and mobile/web platforms for investing. Vietcombank VCBS Stock Trading Platform (Vietcombank)

• Mirae Asset Securities (Vietnam) – Full-service brokerage with access to Vietnamese markets. Mirae Asset Securities Vietnam (Mirae Asset Securities)

• FiinTrade Platform – Vietnam stock market analytics and investment tool. FiinTrade Investor Platform (FinGroup)

• Global Brokers (ETFs & wider access) – Platforms like Interactive Brokers and XTB let you trade ETFs and some Vietnam exposure without a local account. (BrokerChooser)

Note: Some global brokers don’t offer direct access to Vietnam’s exchanges but provide ETFs or Vietnam-focused funds accessible to international investors. (BrokerChooser)

Vietnam Real Estate Resources

• Savills Vietnam – Major international real estate consultancy with listings and market research. Savills Vietnam Real Estate Services (Juwai)

• Bat Dong San – Popular Vietnamese property portal with a broad range of listings. (Juwai)

• IQI Vietnam – Real estate services and listings for investors. (Juwai)

• 123 Nha Dat – Large property portal with diverse listings. (Juwai)

• Vietnam Briefing (Real Estate Insights) – Legal and procedural guides for property investing. (Juwai)

Educational Guides

• How to Invest in Vietnam Stock Market (Guide) – Comprehensive overview of steps and requirements. How to Invest in Vietnam’s Stock Market Guide (InCorp Vietnam)

• Vietnam Real Estate Investment Guide – Tips and strategies for overseas investors. Vietnam Real Estate Investment Guide (jarniascyril.com)