Domestic Air Travel Declines Sharply During September 2nd Holiday

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While the number of international passengers in the aviation industry saw a significant increase during the September 2nd National Day holiday, domestic passengers decreased by 16% compared to the same period last year.

Domestic flights decreased sharply on September 2nd. Photo: TIA.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) recently submitted a report to the Ministry of Transport regarding air travel during the National Day holiday.

According to the report, over the four-day holiday, the total number of air passengers reached more than 763,000, which is 98% of the figure for the same period in 2023. International passenger transport exceeded 406,500 passengers (+15% compared to the same period), while domestic passenger transport reached over 356,500 passengers (-16%).

Freight transport during this period was about 13,000 tons (+11%), with international freight exceeding 10,900 tons (+10%) and domestic freight transport surpassing 2,100 tons (+14%).

The total volume of passengers and goods passing through Vietnamese airports amounted to 7,000 takeoffs and landings (-3%), more than 1.1 million passengers (-7%), and over 15,000 tons of goods (+11%).

At Tan Son Nhat Airport, more than 2,500 takeoffs and landings were recorded, with approximately 407,000 passengers and around 5,300 tons of goods. Compared to the same period last year, these figures represent a 9% decrease in takeoffs and landings, a 7% decline in passengers, but a 3% increase in freight.

In Hanoi, Noi Bai Airport saw nearly 2,000 takeoffs and landings, equivalent to around 314,000 passengers and over 8,700 tons of goods, marking an 8% drop in takeoffs and landings, a 1% decrease in passengers, but a 17% rise in freight compared to the same period in 2023. During this time, Da Nang Airport experienced over 900 takeoffs and landings, with more than 111,000 passengers and over 333 tons of freight. This represents a 3% decrease in takeoffs and landings, a 13% drop in passengers, but an 80% increase in freight compared to 2023. Additionally, during the National Day holiday, airlines operated more than 2,700 flights (averaging nearly 700 flights per day ).

The on-time performance rate for flights was only 73.6%, impacted by the airlines’ operational policies and chain delays that caused late arrivals of aircraft. Furthermore, heavy rains persisted for several hours in southern airports, affecting airport operations and airline schedules, leading to flight delays.

On August 30, the on-time performance rate for airlines hit the lowest level, at just 63.6%.

Moreover, during the holiday period, 18 flights were canceled by airlines due to changes in commercial operation plans.

@Znews

Ho Chi Minh City Wins Asia’s Leading MICE Destination for the 5th Time

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Surpassing many strong contenders, Ho Chi Minh City proudly claimed victory in three major categories at the 2024 World MICE Awards.

Ho Chi Minh City continues to win big at the 2024 World MICE Tourism Awards. Photo: Linh Huynh.

On the evening of September 4, the 2024 World MICE Awards ceremony took place in Ho Chi Minh City. At the event, the city was honored with awards in three significant categories: Asia’s Best MICE Destination, Asia’s Best Incentive Destination, and the ITE HCMC (Vietnam) Trade Show was recognized as Asia’s Best Trade Show.

This marks the fifth consecutive time Ho Chi Minh City has won the title of Asia’s Leading MICE Destination and the first time the city hosted this prestigious award ceremony.

The World MICE Awards are part of a series of awards developed from the World Travel Awards, a globally recognized and prestigious program.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa represents Ho Chi Minh City to receive this prestigious title. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism

Ms. Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, said: “The award is a testament to the city’s efforts to position Ho Chi Minh City not only as a tourism destination but also as a major hub for tourism development in Asia, focused on sustainable tourism growth aligned with cultural, social, and environmental values.”

In recent years, the city has identified MICE tourism as one of the four key areas to heavily invest in and develop. In addition to the title of Asia’s Leading MICE Destination, Ho Chi Minh City was also named Asia’s Best Incentive Destination. This award not only highlights the city’s potential and appeal but also strengthens its position on the global stage.

Notably, this is the first time the ITE HCMC Trade Show has been recognized as Asia’s Best Trade Show after 17 editions.

With the theme “Sustainable Tourism – Shaping the Future,” the ITE HCMC includes a series of events and discussions, officially taking place from September 5-7 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.

Earlier, Ho Chi Minh City had been named Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination 2024, Asia’s Leading Festival & Event Destination 2024, and Asia’s Leading City Tourism Authority 2024.

@Znews

Which Tourist Destinations Were the Most Crowded During the National Day Holiday on September 2?

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During this year’s National Day holiday, from August 31 to September 3, Ho Chi Minh City received the largest number of visitors, reaching nearly one million. Hanoi followed with over 672,000 visitors.

The HCMC Department of Tourism reported that tourist attractions and entertainment venues saw approximately 980,000 visitors, a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 2.94 trillion, up 1.7% from 2023, with an average hotel occupancy rate of around 85%.

Thousands of people flocked to Nguyen Hue walking street, Bach Dang wharf park, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City to watch the fireworks display on the evening of September 2. Photo: Nguyen Hue.

Hanoi attracted an estimated 672,900 tourists, a 5% increase compared to 2023. Of these, nearly 59,000 were international visitors, up 35.8%, while domestic tourists increased slightly by 3.6%, with many opting for resorts and destinations in the outskirts of the city . Total tourism revenue is estimated at over VND 2.18 trillion, an 8.3% increase from 2023.

People line up to visit President Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum during the September 2nd holiday. Photo: Bao Kien.

In Khanh Hoa, it is estimated that during the four-day holiday from September 2, the province welcomed over 578,000 visitors. Tourism revenue is estimated to reach VND 756.3 billion, a 14.2% increase. According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Le Thanh, Director of the Khanh Hoa Department of Tourism, the province attracted a large number of tourists from Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces. Besides road transport, train routes such as HCMC-Nha Trang and Da Nang-Nha Trang were also popular among tourists.

In Ba Ria – Vung Tau, the total number of visitors for sightseeing and accommodation is estimated at over 565,000, an increase of 6.61% compared to 2023, with overnight stays up by 17.42%. Tourism revenue during the four-day holiday from September 2 reached VND 348,218 billion, a 16.65% increase compared to 2023. Vung Tau City alone received more than 276,000 visitors.

The province’s hotel occupancy rate ranges from 80% to 85% during the holiday. According to the local Department of Tourism, the number of tourists was slightly lower due to rainy weather during the holiday.

In Quang Ninh, the total number of tourists during the four-day holiday reached 455,000, 119% of the same period in 2023 (382,000 visitors during the 2023 National Day holiday). The peak days for visitors were August 31 to September 2. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 1,033 trillion, 131% of the same period in 2023. The total number of overnight stays reached 174,200, an increase of 116% compared to 2023 (150,700 in 2023), accounting for 37% of total visitors to Quang Ninh. From August 31 to September 2, occupancy rates at 4-5 star hotels and equivalent accommodations reached 80-90%, while other types of accommodation ponderously 45-55%. On August 31 and September 1, several areas like Co To, Mong Cai, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and Ha Long City saw occupancy rates of 80-90%.

According to Mr. Pham Nguyen Hong, Director of the Thanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the province welcomed 395,700 visitors during the National Day holiday, a 20.4% increase compared to 2023. Overnight stays totaled 140,500, and tourism revenue reached VND 870.5 billion, a 31.3% increase compared to the previous year.

Hotel occupancy across the province ranges from 35% to 37%. In Pu Luong, hotel occupancy reached 100%. Leading the province in visitor numbers is Sam Son City, with 198,200 tourists.

Previously, during the April 30 – May 1 holiday, Thanh Hoa recorded the highest number of visitors nationally, with over 1.5 million, a record-breaking figure, up by more than 27% compared to the same period. The province’s total revenue revenue during the holiday exceeds VND 3.8 trillion, a nearly 33% increase compared to 2023.

Tu Thuc Cave (Nga Thien Commune, Nga Son District, Thanh Hoa) welcomed a large number of visitors to visit and experience on the occasion of September 2. Photo: Le Duong.

Binh Thuan is estimated to have welcomed 385,000 visitors, a 3.3 times increase compared to the 2023 National Day holiday, with revenue reaching around VND 510 billion. During the holiday, the peak visitor flow occurred from August 31 to September 2, and average room occupancy rates ranged from 80% to 95%, with many establishments reaching full capacity.

Most domestic tourists to Binh Thuan came from Ho Chi Minh City, Lam Dong, Dong Nai, and Binh Duong, focusing on areas like Ham Tien, Mui Ne, Tien Thanh, Tuy Phong, Ham Thuan Nam, La Gi, and Phu Quy.

Ninh Binh is estimated to have welcomed 374,000 visitors, an increase of 67.9% compared to the 2023 holiday, with international tourists reaching around 74,000, a 276.7% rise compared to 2023. Revenue is estimated at nearly VND 650 billion, up 182.6% from 2023 Room occupancy rates critically 85% to 90%, and on the nights of August 31 and September 1, occupancy reached 100%.

According to the Da Nang Department of Tourism, the total number of tourists visiting Da Nang reached nearly 308,000, a 21.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Domestic tourists totaled around 217,000, a 23.8% increase, while international tourists about 91,000 , up 15.3%. Total tourism revenue exceeded VND 1.2 trillion, a 33.8% rise compared to 2023. Da Nang’s tourism officials noted a significant increase in visitors traveling by train and self-driving vehicles, particularly from neighboring provinces such as Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Hue, Quang Nam, and Quang Ngai.

An Giang received over 210,000 tourists, comparable to the same period in 2023. Binh Dinh is estimated to have welcomed 204,044 visitors, a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 555 billion, a 0.8% rise compared to 2023. Lao Cai welcomed around 196,500 visitors during the holiday, with Sa Pa town receiving approximately 122,770 visitors, a 33.2% increase from the 2023 holiday. Total tourism revenue in Lao Cai for the four-day holiday is estimated at around VND 606 billion.

In Quang Nam, the total number of visitors over four days is estimated at 193,000 (a 16% increase compared to 2023). The average room occupancy rate is between 55% and 60%, while 4-5 star hotels reached 80% to 90%.

The Kien Giang Department of Tourism reported that the province welcomed over 159,000 visitors, with an average room occupancy rate of 35%. Phu Quoc City is estimated to have welcomed 75,591 visitors, a more than 20% increase compared to 2023, with international visitors accounting for over 15,500, a more than 170% increase. Total tourism revenue is estimated at VND 347 billion.

Thousands of tourists flocked to visit and have fun in Hoi An (Quang Nam) during the National Day holiday on September 2. Photo: Ha Nam.

Tourist arrivals to Da Lat City for sightseeing and relaxation are estimated at around 100,000, an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Among them, international tourists are estimated at 7,200, a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2023, while domestic tourists are estimated at 92,800 (with about 68,200 staying overnight), an 11% increase compared to 2023.

The total number of tourists visiting Ninh Thuan during the National Day holiday is estimated at 75,000, a 15.4% increase compared to the same period last year, with revenue reaching VND 90 billion.

The total number of tourists arriving in Phu Yen reached 46,500, a 10% increase compared to the same period. Among these, the number of international tourists doubled compared to last year. Tourism revenue amounted to VND 93 billion, a 46% increase compared to the same period last year.

@Znews

Hoi An Among the World’s Most Ideal Destinations in September

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Recently, Australia’s travel website Escape published an article introducing the world’s most ideal destinations for September, including Vietnam’s ancient town of Hoi An.

According to Escape’s travel writer Simone Mitchell, the weather in Hoi An in September ranges from 24°C to 31°C, making it perfect for travel. It’s also the transitional season, so visitors may experience occasional light rain showers.

Mornings and afternoons in Hoi An are usually sunny, providing ideal conditions for exploring the ancient town and its surrounding areas.

Hoi An is colorful. Photo: Tripadvisor.

September is also not the peak tourist season in Hoi An, meaning that travelers visiting during this time can avoid the crowds typically seen during the summer months or long holidays.

The popular travel site also recommends visitors not to miss the chance to attend the Lantern Festival, which usually takes place on the 14th day of the lunar month.

In addition to Hoi An, other destinations on Escape’s list of top places to visit in September include Kyoto (Japan), Istanbul (Turkey), Bali (Indonesia), Barcelona (Spain), Vancouver (Canada), and more.

@Znews

Which Airports Are Expected to Be Affected by Typhoon Yagi?

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The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has directed relevant agencies and units to maintain 24/7 operations and strictly adhere to procedures for responding to typhoons and tropical depressions in civil aviation.

Bad weather is expected to greatly affect domestic flights. Photo: CAAV.

The CAAV has issued an urgent notice to aviation-related units about proactively preventing and responding to Typhoon No. 3 (Typhoon Yagi).

Airports forecasted to be within the impact zone of Typhoon Yagi include Van Don, Cat Bi, Noi Bai, and Tho Xuan. Vinh and Dien Bien airports have also been warned of potential rain and thunderstorms and are advised to be ready for unexpected developments from the storm.

To proactively respond to Typhoon Yagi, the CAAV has requested that all agencies and units organize 24/7 duty shifts and strictly follow the response procedures for typhoons and tropical depressions in civil aviation.

For the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM), the authority has directed the meteorological service providers to ensure high-quality weather information, continuously monitor weather conditions in the region, update forecast and warning reports, and promptly provide accurate observation and forecast information to users. users.

For airports, airlines, and air service providers, the CAAV has called for increased coordination and close monitoring of Typhoon Yagi’s developments to adjust flight schedules or change flight times accordingly in areas directly affected by the storm, ensuring flight safety.

Additionally, these entities must keep updated on meteorological information from relevant aviation weather agencies and implement necessary response actions based on the situation to minimize operational impacts, ensure flight safety, and protect personnel and property from natural disasters.

Moreover, all units are required to implement flood prevention measures, clear drainage systems within airports, and protect airport infrastructure, vehicles, and equipment to minimize damage caused by the storm. Swift recovery of aviation operations is also essential to meet passenger needs.

The regulatory body has also requested that airport authorities oversee the implementation of response measures and ensure smooth communication with related units to handle any situation that may arise.

According to information from the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting and the Meteorological Watch Office (MWO), as of 7 a.m. on September 6, Typhoon Yagi was about 180 kilometers east of Hainan Island (China), with a strength of level 14, gusting up to level 17. By 7 a.m. on September 7, the typhoon is expected to move at a speed of 15-20 km/h in a west-northwest direction, maintaining a strength of level 13, gusting to level 16. In the next 72 to 120 hours, the typhoon is forecasted to continue moving west-northwest at a speed of 15-20 km/h, with its intensity gradually decreasing.

@Znews

Blockstream Mining Starts Third Investment Round for Hashrate-Backed Tokenized Note

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The EU-compliant security token gives investors exposure to the hashrate over a four-year period.

Blockstream Mining said it is opening a third round of investment for its hashrate-backed tokenized note, which gives participants a slice of the bitcoin (BTC) earned from the company’s mining activities over the next four years.

Two earlier rounds of the BMN2 note raised a total of around $7 million. The third will be priced at $31,000 and give holders the bitcoin produced by 1 petahash per second (PH/s) of hashrate. The sale will last for three weeks, a company spokesperson said in an interview. Blockstream is targeting $10 million in investment for the latest round.

“Blockstream is able to offer mining for under 4.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is far below the industry average,” the spokesperson said. “Anyone investing in BMN2 will benefit from access to the most cost-effective mining around.”

The company, co-founded by legendary bitcoin developer Adam Back, is working with Stokr for the sale of the note.

Crypto markets are becoming increasingly financialized, and hashrate-backed contracts are not new. What’s unique about Blockstream’s note is its duration. Most contracts lock in the hashprice for up to 12 months, James Macedonio, Blockstream’s SVP global head of mining sales and business development, said. BMN2, an EU-compliant security token, gives exposure to the bitcoin hashrate over a 48-month period.

Hashrate refers to the total combined computational power used to mine and process transactions on a proof-of-work blockchain and is a proxy for competition in the industry and mining difficulty. Hashprice is a mining metric that calculates revenue on a per terahash basis, and is computed using network difficulty, the bitcoin price, the block subsidy and transaction fees.

The advantage of buying Blockstream’s BMN2 note instead of buying hashrate futures from bitcoin mining companies is that investors are not exposed to counterparty risk or possible miner failures, and the price is locked in for four years, Macedonio said. Furthermore, the market hashprice adjusts quarterly, and is dependent on mining efficiency, and passes through risks such as energy price and counterparty risk, he added.

“With the bitcoin mining market currently experiencing historically low hashprice levels, BMN2 allows investors to strategically enter the market at an opportune time,” the company said in a July release announcing the note.

In a report last month, Wall Street giant JPMorgan (JPM) noted that the hashprice is about 30% below levels seen in September 2022 and about 40% below the level before April’s reward halving.

Investors in the note’s predecessor, BMN1, were mainly international family offices and funds in Europe, Macedonio said. While BMN2 is starting to see interest from U.S. institutions, the product is not being offered there yet, he said. Macedonio said many BMN1 investors rolled over their investment into BMN2.

BMN1 was highly successful. It “mined over 1,242 BTC and delivered returns of up to 103% over its three-year term,” Stokr said on its website. It is the “highest payout in real world asset (RWA) security token history,” according to Arnab Naskar, co-founder and co-CEO of Stokr.

BMN2’s first two investor rounds started on July 18 and ended Aug. 12. Anchor investors who committed over $500,000 in investment were given a discount and invested in series 1. Investors who rolled over their investment from Blockstream’s BMN1 note and new backers invested in series 2.

Money raised from the sale of the note is used to manage physical infrastructure and energy costs because Blockstream is responsible for producing the hashrate that backs the note. The company has mining facilities in Georgia, Montreal and Texas.

The tokenised note will trade on crypto exchange Bitfinex.

Ether CME Futures Volume Shrinks as ETH ETFs Disappoint, Crypto Market Ducks Risk

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The decline in trading volumes for ETH instruments suggests lower-than-expected institutional interest in the asset, particularly following the launch of spot ether ETFs, according to CCData.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tied to the ether (ETH) price debuted in the U.S. late July, opening doors for investors seeking exposure to the cryptocurrency while bypassing the hassle of storing it.

Since then, activity in ether derivatives listed on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) has cooled, according to CCData, a digital assets data provider based in London.

Trading volume in ether futures declined 28.7% to $14.8 billion in August, the lowest since December 2023. Volume in ether options fell 37% to $567 million.

“This decline in trading volumes for ETH instruments suggests lower-than-expected institutional interest in the asset, particularly following the launch of spot ETH ETFs,” CCData noted. “The reduced inflows into spot ETH ETFs in August further support this trend. Additionally, seasonality effects in August may have also contributed to the decreased trading activity, with this trend likely to continue into September.”

Before the advent of spot ETFs, futures and futures-based ETFs were the only regulated avenues available for traditional stateside institutions. The spot products are generally perceived as superior to futures-based ETFs as the latter are vulnerable to “contango bleed.” That said, demand for spot ETFs has not been impressive either.

Data tracked by Farside Investors show ether ETFs have registered a net outflow of over $500 million since their debut. Bitcoin ETFs, in contrast, saw a net inflow of over $300 million in the first six weeks.

“The launch timing of U.S. spot Ether ETFs on 23 July turned out to be less than ideal, coinciding with a tech stock sell-off. Ether’s high beta (~2.7) implies high losses in periods of risk aversion, and Ether prices had now seen a 30% drawdown since launch,” DBS Treasuries said in a market insights post on Wednesday.

Ether’s price fell over 22% to $2,512 in August, its biggest monthly percentage slide since June 2022, amid volatility in traditional markets and crypto market leader bitcoin.

Shift toward bitcoin

Globally, there has been a shift toward market leader bitcoin, a sign crypto investors are becoming risk averse in the wake of the stalled bull run.

In August, volume in CME’s bitcoin futures rose 3.74% to $104 billion, according to CCData. Still, the volume of BTC options traded fell 13.4% to $2.42 billion.

Data tracked by Wintermute show bitcoin futures now account for 48% of the total notional open interest in the crypto futures market, while alternative cryptocurrencies, including ether, account for the rest. In March, when optimism was at its peak, bitcoin represented just 31% of the global open interest.

“This shift toward higher market cap assets like bitcoin signals a more conservative market sentiment, with traders displaying less appetite for risk and speculative positions in smaller, more volatile cryptocurrencies,” Jake Ostrovskis, an over-the-counter trader at Wintermute, said in a market note shared with CoinDesk.

Here’s What the Press Around the World Predicts Vietnam vs. Russia Match Result

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Global sports outlets have been speculating about the result of the highly anticipated friendly match between Vietnam and Russia, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on September 5 at My Dinh Stadium.

This evening, Vietnam will face a formidable challenge as they go head-to-head with Russia. In the latest FIFA rankings, Vietnam sits at 115th, while Russia holds a far superior position at 33rd.

Despite the uphill battle ahead, Vietnamese fans remain hopeful, believing that coach Kim Sang Sik and his team can defy expectations and deliver a remarkable performance.

International sports publications, however, are largely predicting a win for Russia. Indian outlet Sportskeeda noted, “The Vietnamese team is currently ranked 115th globally and has struggled throughout 2024, losing seven of their last eight matches. Their lone victory came with a 3-2 win over the Philippines in the World Cup qualifiers.”

With the V-League set to begin and the 2024 AFF Cup approaching, Vietnam aims to build momentum through victories on home soil. Coach Kim Sang Sik has called up 26 players to prepare for back-to-back matches against Russia and Thailand. Notably, striker Tien Linh, who has scored 20 goals in 46 appearances for Vietnam, remains sidelined for official matches since 2022. Recently, Russia demonstrated their strength in friendly matches with commanding 4-0 victories over both Serbia and Belarus. Earlier, they also thrashed Cuba 8-0.

This will be the first official encounter between the two sides. However, given Russia’s higher caliber, many predict Vietnam will face difficulties in ending their losing streak.

Sportskeeda has forecasted a 3-0 win for Russia, stating, “The Russian team is clearly superior, and Vietnam may struggle to recover from their recent poor form.”

Football Predictions also suggested a comfortable win for Russia, predicting a 2-0 victory. The outlet commented, “Russia should easily secure a clean sheet, as Vietnam continues to face challenges in their attacking play.”

Meanwhile, Indonesian site Nobartv expressed doubts about Vietnam’s ability to compete against a European powerhouse like Russia, forecasting a 2-1 defeat for Vietnam. They expect coach Kim Sang Sik to deploy a 4-4-2 formation, featuring Tien Linh and Phan Van Duc as the attacking duo.

Another Indonesian publication, Bola, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Vietnam is still in the process of regaining stability under coach Kim Sang Sik. In contrast, Russia boasts a cohesive squad, with most players competing domestically. Remarkably, Russia has kept a clean sheet in four of their last five matches.

Bola predicted a 3-1 victory for Russia.

Typhoon Yagi Strengthens to Level 15, Poised to Become a Super Typhoon with Devastating Winds and Heavy Rainfall Expected

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Typhoon Yagi has intensified to a level 15 storm, with winds reaching 167-183 km/h and gusts surpassing level 17, and it may escalate into a super typhoon within the next 24 hours.

As reported by the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, at 4:00 a.m. on September 5, the storm’s center was located at approximately 19.1 degrees North latitude and 116 degrees East longitude, over the northern waters of the East Sea, about 550 km east of Hainan Island, China. The strongest winds near the center reached level 15, with gusts above level 17, as the storm moved westward at around 10 km/h.

By 4:00 a.m. on September 6, Typhoon Yagi is expected to be about 210 km east of Hainan Island, with winds at level 16 and gusts at level 17, moving at 10-15 km/h in a west-northwest direction.

The following day, the storm, which will be the third named storm of the season, is forecasted to weaken to level 13-14 as it approaches the northern Gulf of Tonkin, while gusts remain above level 17. It will continue to move west-northwest at 15-20 km/h, gradually losing strength.

By September 8, Yagi is predicted to weaken into a tropical depression with winds at level 6 and gusts at level 8, moving at 20 km/h towards the northwest.

As the storm approaches, the northern East Sea region will experience strong winds ranging from level 11 to 13, with areas near the center of the storm seeing winds up to level 14-16 and gusts above level 17. The seas will be rough, with waves reaching 7-9 meters and up to 10-12 meters near the storm center.

The Gulf of Tonkin is forecasted to have strong winds between levels 10 and 12 from the night of September 6, with winds near the storm center reaching levels 13-14 and gusting to level 17.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has issued a warning of potential heavy rainfall across Northern and North Central regions from September 6 to September 9, with localized thunderstorms and total rainfall ranging from 100-300 mm, and some areas possibly exceeding 500 mm.

In addition, the Central Highlands is expected to see moderate to heavy rainfall on the afternoon and night of September 5, with rainfall ranging from 20-40 mm, and some areas receiving more than 80 mm.

Mr. Dinh Huu Duong, Head of the Forecasting Department at the Hydrometeorological Station of the Northern Delta and Midlands, noted that from September 7 to 9, mainland Vietnam would be impacted by Typhoon Yagi, bringing heavy rainfall to Hanoi from September 7 to 8. There is also a risk of severe thunderstorms as early as September 6, which could lead to urban flooding in Hanoi. Flooding is also expected in river basins such as Tich, Ca Lo, and Bui Rivers, as well as in some low-lying communes of Chuong My District in Hanoi.

Champa Treasures Unveiled to the Public for the First Time

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To commemorate the 79th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day (September 2, 1945 – 2024), the National Museum of History has organized a special exhibition titled “Champa Treasures – Marks of Time.” The exhibition is divided into two sections: “Religious Statues and Mascots” and “Jewelry and Objects with Religious and Royal Significance.”

The “Religious Statues and Mascots” section showcases intricately designed gold and silver statues adorned with precious stones. Champa, like other ancient Southeast Asian civilizations, was influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, resulting in statues of gods, Buddhas, and sacred animals that reflect the religious and cultural traditions of these faiths.

In the “Jewelry and Objects with Religious and Royal Significance” section, visitors can admire beautifully crafted jewelry and items symbolizing religious authority and royal power. These items, such as earrings, necklaces, rings, and crowns, often bear Hindu motifs and were used in religious ceremonies or by the Champa royal family. The high level of craftsmanship and detailed goldsmithing in these artifacts highlight their cultural, historical, and artistic importance.

The exhibition offers a rare opportunity for both domestic and international visitors to explore the rich history and artistry of the Champa civilization. It will run until October 2024 at the Vietnam National Museum of History, located at No. 1 Trang Tien, Hanoi.

Golden statue of the sacred bull Nandin. Nandin is considered the “god of wealth”, a loyal servant and leader of the army of God Shiva. Almost all Shiva temples have a statue of the sacred bull Nandin lying prostrate, facing the main temple.
Linga – Yoni altar made of gold and silver. Linga – Yoni is the combination of masculine and feminine energy, representing the union of the two principles of yin and yang, the foundation of life, the origin of the universe.
(1): Statue of a male god made of gold and gemstones; (2): Statue of a female god made of gold
Gold wristbands with God Shiva figures
Pendant necklace
Gold belt with gemstones
The box decorated with God Shiva on top and goddesses on sides, made of silver and gemstones

@vtv.vn

Bitcoin Mining Profitability Is Stuck at Record Lows, JPMorgan Says

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Miners earned an average of $43,600 per exahash a second in daily block rewards last month, the lowest rate on record, the report said.

Bitcoin (BTC) mining profitability is stuck at record lows, JPMorgan (JPM) said in a research report on Tuesday.

“We estimate bitcoin miners earned an average of $43,600 per EH/s in daily block reward revenue in August, the lowest point on record,” analysts Reginald Smith and Charles Pearce wrote.

That compares with a peak value of $342,000 in November 2021, when the BTC price was $60,000 and the network hashrate was 161 EH/s.

Mining stocks declined as the average price of the world’s largest cryptocurrency fell for the third consecutive month and the network hashrate rose. Hashrate refers to the total combined computational power used to mine and process transactions on a proof-of-work blockchain.

The total market cap of the 14 U.S.-listed miners tracked by the bank shrank 15% month-on-month to $20 billion, with only three of the miners outperforming bitcoin in the period, the report said.

The network hashrate, a proxy for competition in the industry and mining difficulty, increased for the second straight month, the bank noted. “The network hashrate averaged 631 EH/s in August, up 16 EH/s from last month, and about 20 EH/s below prehalving levels,” the authors wrote.

JPMorgan noted that mining difficulty rose 9% last month, and is 4% higher than before the halving.

There was a brief spike in transaction fees in August, to as much as 120% of the block reward, which is an “incremental positive” for the miners, the report added.

The bank noted that bitcoin’s annualized volatility rose to 62% in August, from 45% in July.

TradFi Companies ‘Want to Transact in Bitcoin,’ Says Cantor Fitzgerald CEO

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Howard Lutnick was picked by Donald Trump to chair his presidential transition team last month

Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick has said traditional financial (TradFi) companies “want to transact in bitcoin” as a new asset class but are being held back by the existing requirements of U.S. regulators.

Lutnick said in an X post on Tuesday that bitcoin (BTC) was an “outsider to the TradFi community [that’s] only now dipping its toe into global finance.”

“If a bank were to hold your bitcoin, they would have to set aside their own money equal to that amount, sort of ‘in jail’. That’s why they don’t hold it. But if the regulatory environment was good, you will see all the traditional financial companies go head first into bitcoin,” Lutnick said.

As well as being CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, which unveiled its plans to open a bitcoin financing business in June, Lutnick was also picked by the pro-crypto Republican candidate Donald Trump to chair his presidential transition team.

Cantor Fitzgerald, which owns a “s***load” of bitcoin, according to Lutnick, plans to launch its bitcoin financing business with $2 billion in lending, providing leverage to BTC holders. It already handles U.S. Treasury trading with stablecoin issuer Tether.

Hanoi to Digitize 3D Models of Historic Villas

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The Hanoi People’s Committee recently announced a plan to create management records, develop a database, and implement 3D digitization for these villas. This initiative is part of Program No. 03-CTr/TU, aimed at enhancing the management, use, and preservation of state-owned villas built before 1954.

The plan will improve the capacity of state management agencies by providing comprehensive information on the status of these villas, enabling better decision-making for their conservation. It also includes the development of villa management software to help analyze data and predict future needs.

Key milestones include:

  • By the end of 2024, 20% of the villas (about 240) will have their management profiles and databases established.
  • The 3D digitization of Group 1 villas will begin in the fourth quarter of 2024.
  • By 2025, the city aims to have 80% of the villas (around 970) documented and digitized.
  • The entire project, including software development and 3D digitization, is expected to be completed by December 31, 2026.

This effort underscores Hanoi’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while leveraging modern technology for effective management.

Group 1 Villas are villas ranked as historical and cultural relics according to the provisions of the law on cultural heritage; villas with typical architectural value, owned by the state.

Hainan (China) and North of Vietnam Brace for Typhoon Yagi: Level 4 Emergency Response Activated

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Since last weekend, Typhoon Yagi, combined with the southwest monsoon, has already wreaked havoc in the Philippines, bringing torrential rains and severe flooding to the capital, Manila, and other areas. The devastating impact has caused landslides, submerging houses and burying entire villages, with the death toll rising to 14.

According to the Philippine Meteorological Agency, Typhoon Yagi is expected to strengthen, possibly reaching severe tropical storm status before escalating to a super typhoon by September 5.

Currently, Typhoon Yagi has entered the eastern part of the South China Sea and is steadily advancing toward Hainan Island. The storm is intensifying and is forecast to make landfall along the eastern coast of Hainan Province and the western coast of Guangdong Province on September 6.

The Hainan Provincial Meteorological Bureau has warned that the storm’s strongest winds near its center could reach levels 15-17, categorizing it as a strong storm or super typhoon. From the night of September 3 to September 8, coastal areas off Hainan will face powerful gusts, while the island itself is expected to experience heavy rain from September 5 to September 7.

Discover Vietnam: A Seasonal Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

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Not many people know about the exceptional experiences that this country offers. Vietnam is an Asian country where you get bustling, vibrant cities and breathtaking natural landscapes that will be etched in your memory forever. The heroic history of this beautiful country also makes it an exciting destination for all history buffs. It is an anticipated holiday destination among many UK citizens. If you want to explore this beautiful destination soon from the UK, you will need a seasonal guide to Vietnam. 

Those who travel extensively know that the most unforgettable experience at a destination is only possible if they choose the right time to visit it. As Vietnam covers an area of more than 1600 km, you cannot expect the weather to be constant throughout the region. The climate here will fluctuate as you travel from south to north. So, make sure you know not only about the best time to visit Vietnam but also about the seasons in the area you plan to visit and the experiences you are looking forward to. A comprehensive seasonal guide like this will do the job, so keep reading.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

As mentioned earlier, the weather in Vietnam varies from area to area. However, if you want to experience ideal weather conditions in the main tourist attractions in Vietnam, you should plan your trip in March or April. These are the spring months, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. However, you must be aware of the fluctuating weather conditions while you travel around the country. 

There is also a more extended bracket between November and April that can also offer a great time to the country. The good thing about visiting during this time is that you can avoid the hot and sticky summer and the heavy tropical monsoon season when most of the country experiences heavy rainfalls and occasional flooding. 

Seasonal Guide to Vietnam Region Wise

 

We know how confusing it can be to choose a time to visit Vietnam when the region doesn’t promise constant weather in all parts. But you don’t have to worry anymore because this region-wise seasonal guide to visiting the area will be pretty helpful for you. You can see what time will be perfect for you to visit the region of Vietnam that you want to explore.

Perfect Time to Visit Northern Vietnam 

Northern Vietnam includes areas such as Halong Bay, Hanoi, and Sapa. Winters in this region are cold and dry, starting in December and ending in February. The temperature overnight here can go as low as 4 degrees Celsius. Summer in the country’s northern region is quite hot and humid, which isn’t a favorable time to explore the tourist attractions in the area. 

Therefore, you must avoid the summer months from May to August. In this part of the country, spring and autumn offer good warm and sunny days. Spring is in March and April, while Autumn is in September and November. 

Perfect Time to Visit Central Vietnam

Hue and Hoi An are located in the central Vietnam region. The coastal areas of this region are at high risk of extreme wet weather and usually have flooding and typhoon warnings during the wet season. You can expect typhoon-like winds from August to November in coastal areas like Hoi An. 

In February, the rains start to subside, giving way to the sun. This results in more sunny and pleasant days. So, if you plan to visit the central Vietnam region, the best time to see this region will be between February and August. You will usually find hot and dry days during this time, with temperatures ranging between 21 and 35 degrees Celsius.

Perfect Time to Visit Southern Vietnam

This part of the country includes areas like the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City. It is the best one if you don’t want to feel too restricted by the varying weather conditions. It is perfect for people who wish to plan a holiday in a year-round destination. The region’s dry season is from December to May, and the wet season is from June to November. 

However, the wet season in southern Vietnam is not as severe. The rainfall here is short and doesn’t impact everyday life and tourism. Photographers love to travel to this part of the country during its monsoon season because of the dramatic view of the Mekong Delta, where thunderheads float, and the lush green rice fields. 

Summing Up

Vietnam is a glorious destination with countless unforgettable experiences for its tourists. The region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty worldwide and offers the chance to explore beautiful islands, lush green rainforests, and magnificent mountains. You will also get an opportunity to explore Vietnamese culture and cuisine. There are a lot of vibrant towns here that will give you the most unforgettable holiday experience. You just need a seasonal guide to Vietnam to ensure you have the most unforgettable experience. Book your flight and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable memories, from vibrant towns to breathtaking natural wonders, all at an incredible value. It is also a great destination option for UK citizens looking for a holiday under £400 as it is among the cheapest countries to travel to but offers many experiences that stun everyone.

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