Vietnamese destinations honored by the world’s largest tourism platform

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Hanoi has been voted by the world’s largest travel platform, TripAdvisor, as one of the 20 most popular destinations in the world in 2023.

In the Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations category for 2023, Hanoi ranks 17th among the most popular cities for tourists, alongside two other Southeast Asian destinations: Bali (Indonesia) at second place and Phuket (Thailand) at 16th place. Bangkok is ranked 22nd on the list. This is the second consecutive year that Hanoi has made it onto TripAdvisor’s list.

Experts and editors at TripAdvisor note that Vietnam’s capital is still “enduring over the years,” preserving historical sites and cultural architecture while allowing space for modern development. Landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, and various lakes, parks, temples, and pagodas contribute to the city’s appeal. Visitors can easily explore the city by taxi.

Hanoi is also honored in the “Best Food Destinations” category, securing the third position. Popular food destinations in Hanoi according to TripAdvisor users include Bun Cha Huong Lien, Giang Coffee, Thang Long Fish Cake, and Ly Quoc Su Pho.

In the “Trending Destination” category, Vietnam contributes two names: Hoi An (Quang Nam) at second place and Ho Chi Minh City at 11th place. TripAdvisor describes Hoi An as a stopover for backpackers, where visitors can experience tailor-made clothing from professional tailors in the ancient town.

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned as Vietnam’s bustling metropolis. TripAdvisor recommends exploring the city by taxi, visiting the War Remnants Museum, Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, and indulging in the local culinary scene.

@Vietnamnet

Vietnam Airlines in the top 10 most punctual in Asia

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The UK-based data analytics company specializing in aviation, Cirium, has recently released its annual report on On-Time Performance (OTP) of global airlines, based on operational efficiency and punctuality.

According to the report, Vietnam Airlines ranked 9th out of the top 10 most punctual airlines in the Asia-Pacific region in 2023, with an on-time flight rate of 77.46% out of a total of 150,674 flights.

Cirium calculates on-time performance by considering that an aircraft must be at the gate within 15 minutes of the scheduled time and depart within 15 minutes of the initially announced time.

Vietnam Airlines is the most punctual airline in Vietnam

In the 2023 report, IndiGo, the largest airline in India, secured the 4th position in the list of the most punctual airlines in the Asia-Pacific region. All Nippon Airways from Japan claimed the top spot, followed by Japan Airlines in second place, and Thai Air Asia in third.

Specifically, the top 10 most punctual airlines in 2023 in the Asia-Pacific region are as follows:

  1. All Nippon Airways, Japan (On-time rate: 82.75%)
  2. Japan Airlines, Japan (82.58%)
  3. Thai AirAsia, Thailand (82.52%)
  4. IndiGo, India (82.12%)
  5. Air New Zealand, New Zealand (79.68%)
  6. Garuda Indonesia, Indonesia (78.67%)
  7. Singapore Airlines, Singapore (78.57%)
  8. Philippines Airlines, Philippines (77.46%)
  9. Vietnam Airlines, Vietnam (77.46%)
  10. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong (76.32%)

Meanwhile, the top 5 most punctual airlines globally include Avianca Airlines, the national airline of Colombia, with an 85.73% on-time rate, followed by Azul Airlines, Qatar Airways, Delta Air Lines, and Iberia.

Cirium compiled this list by analyzing real-time data from 600 sources, ensuring accuracy from airports, airline ground service providers, global distribution systems, airlines, location data, civil aviation authorities, and exclusive data partner relationships.

@Thanhnien.vn

BlackRock, VanEck Update Bitcoin ETF Filing Within Hours of Quick SEC Response

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The filings indicate that the two entities were among the prospective issuers that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sent comments in the past 24 hours.

BlackRock (BLK) and VanEck, the two firms among 13 hoping to launch bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S., have filed updated documents on Tuesday.

The filings indicate that the two entities were among the prospective issuers that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sent comments in the past 24 hours. CoinDesk reported earlier that the SEC sent comments to a set of prospective issuers of the spot-bitcoin ETFs just hours after the companies filed documents detailing fees for their proposed products on Monday.

Among the changes in the latest updated filing on Tuesday is wording that seeks to mitigate damage to shareholders in the event of insolvency and avoid a conflict of interest between the ETF’s authorized participants.

The latest filing shows an almost unprecedented engagement between the SEC and prospective issuers, with filings following SEC responses and then updated filings within a span of 24 hours.

The SEC is widely expected to approve all the applications this week as it faces a Jan. 10, 2024 deadline – i.e. this Wednesday – for one of the applications by Ark and 21 Shares and may want to approve all together in the spirit of fairness.

U.S. Arrests ‘Bitcoin Rodney,’ Alleged HyperVerse Crypto Scheme Promoter, on IRS Charges of Fraud

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Rodney Burton was arrested on Friday in Florida and will be transferred to Maryland.

United States authorities arrested and charged Rodney Burton for allegedly defrauding more than $7 million through a fake investment scheme, according to allegations submitted by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on Jan. 5.

Burton, also known as “Bitcoin Rodney,” was charged in Maryland with allegedly promoting the HyperVerse crypto investment scheme, court filings show. HyperVerse, also known as Hyperfund, HyperCapital and HyperNation, was an unincorporated organization established around June 2020, the filing said.

“A network of HyperFund promotors, in the District of Maryland and elsewhere, made fraudulent promotional presentations to investors and potential investors,” according to the filing by Andrew J. Accardi, a special agent with the IRS’s Criminal Investigations department. “HyperFund falsely claimed that investors who purchased ‘memberships’ would receive between 0.5% to 1% daily in passive rewards until HyperFund doubled or tripled the investor’s initial investment.”

Burton, the filing alleges, received 562 wire transfers or cashier’s checks, totaling $7,851,711, from individuals. He was arrested on Friday in Florida and will be transferred to Maryland.

The HyperVerse crypto scheme resulted in thousands of people losing millions of dollars, according to an investigation by Guardian Australia last month. The scheme was run by an entity called HyperTech and promoted and run by CEO Steven Reece Lewis, who appears not to exist, according to the newspaper.

Australia’s Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones has said he will ask the country’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) why it didn’t warn consumers about the HyperVerse crypto scheme, unlike other nations.

The Top 5 Foods For Boosting Mood And Productivity 

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The Top 5 Foods For Boosting Mood And Productivity

Modern lives are often filled with stress, anxiety, and endless pressure to achieve more. Amidst this strife, maintaining emotional well-being and cognitive sharpness is critical to navigating each day successfully.  

While external factors contribute, what you choose to ingest notably impacts your inner state of being. As it turns out, specific foods profoundly affect mood, focus, and drive when incorporated regularly.  

This article examines the top five nutrient-dense dietary selections that boost psychological wellness and productivity. 

1.Fatty Fish Foods

Additionally, fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are nutritional powerhouses for mental well-being. At the root of their benefits lies omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These healthy fats optimize brain cell signaling, fostering calm, clarity, and focus.   

Also, mood-regulating hormones receive a boost. The result? An eased inner monologue as worries fade. Studies correlate diets rich in oily fish to lower depression rates. Their nutrients actively support a relaxed yet driven mindset. 

Therefore, incorporating fatty fish makes it effortless to reap these rewards. Baking, pan searing, or adding to salads provides endless delicious ways to fit fatty fish into your lifestyle. These marine superfoods are a simple yet impactful addition for optimized wellness from within. 

2.Dark Leafy Greens Foods

Moreover, dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard provide abundant vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to nourish the mind. These greens stand out as one of the primary dietary sources of vitamin K, an underrated nutrient for cognitive and emotional health. 

Vitamin K plays a role in synthesizing sphingolipids– fatty substances in the brain linked to memory, learning, and mood regulation. Research links higher vitamin K intakes to reduced depression risk and less depressive symptoms. 

Also, greens deliver mood-lifting vitamin C, magnesium, folate, and flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, which are tied to happier, calmer states. Their wealth of brain-nourishing compounds and low-calorie count make dark leafy veggies a mood and productivity winner. 

3.Strawberries Foods

There’s a reason strawberries are Nature’s candy – these vibrant red berries are loaded with sweet flavor and joy-sparking nutrients. Beyond satisfying a craving, strawberries offer a quick pick-me-up anytime stress or dullness creeps in. 

A bite triggers the release of feel-good chemicals like serotonin in the brain. Instantly, spirits and pep are lifted. Their antioxidants also protect neurons, supporting cognitive function. 

Best of all, the summer favorite is available year-round. Toss into cereal or yogurt, add to a salad – enjoying their natural sweetness provides an anytime lift for the mind and waistline alike. 

4.Dark Chocolate Foods

When it comes to cravings, dark chocolate is the clear winner. But beyond its addictive richness lies real power to elevate your entire mental state. Just one small piece packs the perfect anandamide punch. 

This mood-lifting chemical mimics the function of endocannabinoids, your brain’s natural feel-good compounds. A blast of anandamide ignites positive emotions while calming tension. Suddenly, everything seems brighter and more manageable. 

Besides, paired with dark chocolate’s antioxidants, this one-two punch delivers unbeatable benefits. Flavonoids improve blood flow to carry those happy chemicals where needed—your focus, memory, and drive surge. 

Additionally, opt for varieties containing at least 70% cocoa solids. Their lower sugar reflects higher concentrations of mind-nourishing nutrients. Experience a novel kind of clarity – the kind that sparks peak productivity and creativity all afternoon long! 

5.Kratom 

Remarkably, within the past decade, kratom has been among the most used substances for mood enhancement. It comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree leaves that originate from Southeast Asia. The active components of its leaves contain alkaloids that act on brain opioid receptors to inhibit stress impulses and increase mood. 

Also, research on kratom reveals its anxiolytic and analgesic activities, making it helpful in treating anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue. Several alkaloids in kratom, such as Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, activate opioid receptors to induce relaxation without the same risk of dependence as classic opioids.  

While more research is needed to understand its effects fully, kratom holds promise as a natural supplement. When sourced carefully and utilized by individuals in Canada, it can contribute to supporting mental wellness. 

Besides, using the supplement only occasionally, in small doses, may positively improve psychological well-being and increase efficiency for people. There should be a break in its uses to avoid any tolerance issues, which is quite reasonable. On the other hand, getting kratom from a reputable supplier may assist in the wise use of  kratom Canada as a dietary component.

Final Thoughts 

Are you feeling burnt out in today’s go-go world? You may be missing out on nature’s best brain and mood foods. Kratom, fatty fish, berries, chocolate, and leafy greens aren’t just for tasting good – these top 5 superfoods deliver low-key benefits that can majorly boost your productivity and outlook. 

The best part? You don’t need to overhaul your diet or break the bank – tweak your routine with a handful of these feel-good foods. Before you know it, you’ll feel sharper, more energized, and more equipped to tackle each day enthusiastically. Your inner landscape impacts your outer game, so nourish your body and watch your world level up. 

South Korea Bans Dog Meat. What’s on the Horizon for Vietnam?

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South Korea’s National Assembly has recently approved a groundbreaking legislation to prohibit the consumption and sale of dog meat, putting an end to the controversial centuries-old practice. The ruling party introduced the dog meat ban bill, which received overwhelming support with 208 votes in favor and 2 abstentions during the assembly session on January 9.

The legislation is set to be enforced after a 3-year transition period. Offenders could face penalties of up to 3 years in prison or a fine of 30 million won (approximately 22,800 USD).

Ms. Borami Seo from the Korea International Humane Association, an animal protection group, stated, “The bill will cease the breeding and slaughtering of dogs for human consumption, marking a pivotal moment to liberate millions of dogs from this inhumane industry.”

Although consuming dog meat was historically associated with enhancing endurance during Korea’s humid summers, the practice has gradually waned and is now primarily prevalent among the elderly. Activists report that most dogs are electrocuted or hanged during the slaughtering process, while some livestock owners and traders claim to have implemented more humane methods.

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Support for the dog meat ban has surged under President Yoon Suk Yeol, an avid animal lover who has adopted 6 dogs and 8 cats. First Lady Kim Keon Hee is also an outspoken critic of dog meat consumption.

According to a recent survey by the Seoul-based Animal Welfare Awareness, Research, and Education consultancy, over 94% of respondents did not consume dog meat in the past year, and approximately 93% expressed their intention not to do so in the future.

As of April 2022, the Korean Ministry of Agriculture estimates around 1,100 farms raising 570,000 dogs to cater to approximately 1,600 restaurants. The Korea Meat Dog Association, representing dog breeders and sellers, anticipates that the ban will impact 3,500 farms raising 1.5 million dogs and 3,000 restaurants.

In Vietnam, an estimated five million canines meet their fate for meat annually, ranking second globally only to China. The consumption of dog meat is rooted in beliefs associating it with dispelling bad luck or considering it a delicacy.

However, there is a gradual shift in attitudes toward consuming dog meat, particularly in urban areas, where more people are choosing to keep dogs as pets.

Tragically, a significant number of dogs meet their end through the theft of pets or the capture of strays from the streets. This is often done through cruel methods such as poisoned bait, painful taser guns, or by importing dogs from neighboring countries like Cambodia.

Despite appeals from authorities in major cities such as Hanoi, Hoi An Old Town in Quang Nam province, and Ho Chi Minh City, urging the public to abstain from consuming dog meat, the trade persists.

Vietnamese automaker VinFast set to unveil an electric pickup truck in the US

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VinFast has announced plans to introduce an all-electric pickup truck in the US, potentially comparable in size to the Ranger model. The Vietnamese automaker might unveil the new electric vehicle, along with the VF 3 minicar, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in the United States.

A recent post on VinFast’s fanpage featured a video teasing a new car model with the caption “See you at CES 9th January.” Analysts speculate that this mystery vehicle is likely the pure electric pickup currently in development by VinFast.

Previously teased through a poster, the upcoming electric pickup showcases an aggressive front design with angular lines. The distinctive LED daytime positioning light strip forms a “V” shape, a signature brand identifier, arranged horizontally for a bold look. Details about the vehicle beyond these visual cues remain undisclosed.

VinFast had sought input from Vietnamese consumers on concept designs, including those for a pickup truck model. If categorized in segment D, the electric pickup is anticipated to share the dimensions of popular gasoline models such as the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, or Toyota Hilux.

Expected to feature a powertrain similar to the VF 8 and VF 9 models, the electric pickup would likely include two electric motors delivering a combined 402 horsepower and a peak torque of 620Nm. The drivetrain is set to include a 4-speed full-time AWD system and a CATL battery pack with a 123kWh capacity.

Alongside the electric pickup, predictions suggest that VinFast may officially introduce the VF 3 minicar at CES 2024. Reuters had previously reported on VinFast’s plans to launch two new models—an electric pickup truck and a compact urban car.

The VF 3 minicar has generated considerable interest among Vietnamese consumers. While there have been rumors circulating on social networks regarding an expected starting price of 250 million VND (excluding the battery), experts caution that this information lacks accurate basis without detailed technical specifications.

CES 2024 is scheduled to kick off at 12:00 on January 9 (US time), translating to 0:00 a.m. on January 10 in Vietnam.

Hanoi proposes to replace 9 traditional bus routes with electric buses

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The Hanoi Department of Transport has proposed a pilot program to use electric buses for one year on nine bus routes. These routes currently have bids that expire in 2024 and will include Route 05 Linh Dam – Phu Dien urban area; Route 15 Gia Lam – Pho Ni bus station; Route 17 Long Bien – Noi Bai; Route 36 Yen Phu – Linh Dam urban area; Route 39 Nghia Do – Tu Hiep park; Route 43 Thong Nhat Park – Dong Anh town; Route 54 Long Bien – Bac Ninh, Route 47A National Economics University – Kieu Ky (Gia Lam); Route 59, Dong Anh town – Vietnam Academy of Agriculture.

After the bidding for these routes expires in the first quarter of 2024, the Department proposes to pilot orders for electric buses. The unit will then select a consulting firm to develop technical and economic norms and unit prices for medium and small electric buses. This will serve as a basis for bidding on bus routes when the pilot period ends.

It is estimated that by 2025, Hanoi will have about 68 bus routes whose contracts will expire and must be converted to electric buses.

@tuoitre.vn

Hanoians eagerly to take photos at the dreamy grapefruit garden

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In just over a month, the Lunar New Year will arrive, and it’s also the time when the grapefruit gardens in Phuc Dien ward, located in Hanoi, are ripe and ready for the harvest season. The grapefruit trees are planted in a straight line, with a small path in the middle, and golden ripe grapefruits hanging from the branches. The garden’s beauty is so enchanting that many people from the capital come here to capture rare and beautiful moments.

Mr. Nguyen Gia Dung’s family owns the grapefruit garden, and many people have suggested opening the garden to visitors for photography. Mr. Dung’s family will charge a fee of 50,000 VND for each guest, which will be used to keep the garden clean and secure.

With a large space, this is a suitable place for children to play freely.

The Dien grapefruit garden is 4 hectares wide, with about 2,000 grapefruit trees nearly 30 years old. The garden is open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The largest number of visitors gather on Saturday and Sunday, with an average of 150-180 visitors on weekends.

The garden will welcome customers until January 20, and then they’ll harvest grapefruits to sell for the Lunar New Year. Visitors can buy grapefruit to take home or eat on the spot. The price of a Dien grapefruit ranges from 25,000 VND to 40,000 VND.

Dien grapefruit is a specialty grapefruit variety of Hanoi. It has a dark yellow color, thin pulp and peel, small cloves, and a slightly sweet, succulent taste. When eaten, its aroma lingers in the mouth.

When grapefruit trees bloom, it’s also a very poetic scene suitable for taking photos. Many families from inner-city districts, such as Ba Dinh and Dong Da, as well as farther away, Me Linh and Gia Lam, come to take photos of the ripe golden grapefruit garden.

Nguyen Minh Chi (right) shared: “I feel very happy to visit this garden. The first thing I felt was that it was very similar to the gardens described in the fairy tales I had read. I got to wear ao dai and take pictures with big, ripe yellow grapefruits, which made me feel like the Tet holiday is very close.”

@vtv.vn

International tourists’ searches for Vietnam tourism rank 6th globally

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According to Google’s market trend tracking tool, the search volume for international tourists interested in traveling to Vietnam in 2023 has experienced a growth rate exceeding 75%, ranking 6th globally.

The top 10 countries searching the most for tourism in Vietnam include the United States, Australia, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Germany, Malaysia, and Thailand.

International tourists in Quang Nam. Photo: Minh Hai

Popular destinations in Vietnam that international tourists are actively searching for include Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and two famous coastal spots, Da Nang and Phu Quoc. Following these are Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Hue, and Phan Thiet.

Recently, international media and travel publications have frequently praised several attractive destinations in Vietnam, contributing to promoting the country’s beautiful image worldwide. Among them, Ha Long Bay is recognized as the most impressive spot for sunrise and sunset viewing (Travel+Leisure); Hanoi is acknowledged as the most beautiful destination in Southeast Asia (The Travel, Canada); Ha Giang is listed among the 52 fantastic destinations for travelers in 2023 (The New York Times, USA); Ninh Binh is considered one of the best destinations in 2023 (Forbes), and Sapa is recognized as one of the most beautiful small towns in the world (Condé Nast Traveler)…

According to forecasts from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), international tourism activities are expected to fully recover by the end of 2024, reaching levels comparable to those in 2019. However, the recovery rate varies across regions. The changing preferences of international tourists demand higher quality products, diverse and unique experiences.

The number of international visitors to Vietnam is projected to equal that of 2019, while domestic tourism continues to grow at a slower pace. In 2024, the Vietnamese tourism industry aims to welcome 17-18 million international visitors and serve 110 million domestic tourists (including approximately 72.5 million overnight stays). The total revenue from tourism is expected to reach around VND 840 trillion.

@SGtiepthi

Airlines increase seats and flights during Tet

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Airlines have announced plans to increase flights on important routes during the 2024 Lunar New Year.

Vietravel Airlines stated that it will increase the frequency of flights on the Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi route by an additional 3 flights per day during the 2024 Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon, as per the directive allowing the operation of night flights from the Civil Aviation Authority.

As of January 2, Vietravel Airlines recorded an average occupancy rate of over 89% for outbound flights. Specifically, for the Ho Chi Minh City – Quy Nhon/Da Nang routes in the days leading up to Tet, the occupancy rate has exceeded 97%. Some popular routes with high booking rates include Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi/Quy Nhon/Da Nang, and Hanoi – Da Nang.

“The Tet airfare of Vietravel Airlines currently does not differ much from the same period in 2023. Specifically, the airfare for the Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi route has only increased by 1%; the Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang route has increased by 9%,” said a representative of the airline.

The representative of Vietravel Airlines further shared that the airline will continue to closely coordinate with aviation authorities to increase operational frequency if possible, maximizing the capacity to meet passenger demand.

Additionally, the airline will focus on human resources and collaborate with supply partners to ensure 100% of flights are conducted safely, enhancing security measures during the peak period of the Lunar New Year.

Vietravel Airlines also warned that this period is prone to fraudulent activities related to selling cheap air tickets. To avoid both financial loss and disrupted travel plans during the peak period, the airline advises customers to refer to ticket prices on the official website and avoid purchasing from unusually cheap outlets.

Prior to this, the Vietnam Airlines Group also announced an increase of over 100,000 seats, equivalent to nearly 550 flights, serving the peak period of the 2024 Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon, bringing the total number of seats during this period to 2.1 million with 10,700 flights.

Similarly, Bamboo Airways has leased an additional 2 aircraft to increase capacity by 20% during this Tet holiday. The airline mentioned a focus on increasing operational frequency on major routes such as Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City and between Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Vinh, Thanh Hoa, and Hai Phong.

The 2024 Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon is considered the busiest time for the entire transportation industry. In terms of air transport, the Civil Aviation Authority estimates that from January 25 to February 24, domestic airlines are expected to operate and supply approximately 7.2 million tickets across the domestic flight network.

For rail transport, the Saigon Railway Transport Joint Stock Company stated that over 152,000 tickets have been sold in just over 2 months since opening sales. The company will add 4,000 tickets to serve routes from Saigon to Hanoi and vice versa, along with some routes in the Central region.

Regarding road transport, Ho Chi Minh City anticipates a 40% increase in passenger volume during the 2024 Lunar New Year compared to the same period in the previous year.

@Znews

Many Tet routes from Ho Chi Minh City are about to sold out

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During the peak period of Tet in 2024, the total number of flights operated by Vietnamese airlines is expected to reach 33,800 flights, equivalent to approximately 7.2 million seats.

Many Tet routes departing from Ho Chi Minh City are about to “sold out”. Photo: T.L.

According to statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, routes from Ho Chi Minh City to local airports have high booking rates in the days leading up to the Lunar New Year (from February 1 to February 9 in the Gregorian calendar, corresponding to the 22nd day of the 12th lunar month to the 30th day of the 12th lunar month).

Segments from Ho Chi Minh City to Hue, Pleiku, Tuy Hoa, Thanh Hoa, Quy Nhon, Chu Lai all have booking rates above 90%. Particularly, the Ho Chi Minh City – Van Don (Quang Ninh) route has sold out. Similarly, the Hanoi – Vinh route also has a booking rate of 99%.

For flights from local airports back to Ho Chi Minh City, routes with high booking rates fall in the days after the Lunar New Year (from February 13 to February 19 in the Gregorian calendar, corresponding to the 4th day of the 1st lunar month to the 10th day of the 1st lunar month).

Segments from Ca Mau, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Tuy Hoa, Thanh Hoa to Ho Chi Minh City currently have booking rates ranging from 81% to 94%.

For major routes like Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi, Hanoi – Da Nang, Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City, the occupancy rates during the period from February 3 to February 15 (from the 24th day of the 12th lunar month to the 6th day of the 1st lunar month) are still not high, averaging from 30% to 40%.

During the peak period of Tet Giap Thin in 2024, the total number of flights operated by Vietnamese airlines is expected to reach approximately 33,800 flights, a 14% increase compared to the same period in Tet 2023 and a 21% increase compared to regular flight schedules.

Out of this, an estimated 24,200 domestic flights are planned, a 2% increase compared to Tet 2023 and a 27% increase compared to regular domestic flights. It is also expected that there will be 9,600 international flights during this period, a 60% increase compared to Tet 2023 and a 9% increase compared to regular international flights.

The mentioned flights will contribute to the supply of 7.2 million seats during the peak period of Tet Giap Thin in 2024. Among these, domestic flights will provide more than 5 million seats, and international flights are expected to reach 2.2 million seats.

According to calculations by the Civil Aviation Authority, the three routes with the largest seat supply are: Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi with nearly 1.3 million seats (accounting for 25.2% of the total seats on all routes); the Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang route with nearly 0.4 million seats (9% of the total seats); and the Ho Chi Minh City – Vinh route with nearly 0.3 million seats (accounting for 6% of the total seats).

@Znews

Military Training Aircraft Down in Central Vietnam

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In Dien Ban town, located in Vietnam’s central province of Quang Nam, a military training aircraft experienced a crash at approximately 11 a.m. on Tuesday, as per local media reports. Prior to the crash, both pilots on board successfully parachuted out of the aircraft.

The incident occurred on an empty plot of land near a garden, resulting in minor injuries to a local individual who was working in the vicinity and was struck by debris from the crash. Notably, the front and rear sections of the plane were observed about 200 meters apart from each other at the crash site.

According to VnExpress, the military plane in question is under the management of the Air Defense – Air Force’s Division 372. A representative from the division informed Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the aircraft took off from the central city of Da Nang and encountered the accident during a routine training session.

As detailed by Bao Nguoi Lao Dong, in the afternoon of January 9th, Mr. Phan Minh Dung, Secretary of the Party Committee of Dien Ban, affirmed the occurrence of a military aircraft crash in the vicinity.

Preliminary reports indicate that on the same afternoon, within Dien Nam Bac ward, Dien Ban town, local residents were startled by a loud explosion. Subsequent investigations revealed a military aircraft had crashed, breaking into two parts. The pilot, having safely ejected before the crash, ensured there were no casualties.

The crash site saw some houses affected, with damage to roofs. Fortunately, the house where the aircraft landed was unoccupied at the time, sparing any injuries. Additionally, the fallen aircraft caused damage to local residents’ fireworks.

Upon receiving the information, military authorities, the Dien Ban town police, and relevant provincial agencies swiftly arrived at the scene to probe the incident. Hundreds of curious onlookers gathered to witness the developments.

According to a brief report from the Military Command of Quang Nam province, the downed aircraft is identified as a Su-22 with the serial number 5880.

The aircraft encountered difficulties and crashed during a training mission. The pilot successfully deployed the parachute before the aircraft made contact with the ground, ensuring their safety.

The fallen aircraft belongs to the Air Defense – Air Force Division 372 based in Da Nang. The Su-22, an export designation for the Sukhoi Su-17 series developed during the Soviet era, has been in active service since the late 1980s to 1990s.

Vietnam Opens Doors to Full Foreign Ownership of Electronic Game Business

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Under the current regulations governing electronic games in Vietnam, foreign service providers of online games are required to establish local enterprises to offer their services within the country.

According to Vietnam’s WTO commitments, these foreign investors can only own up to 49% of the charter capital of such game companies. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) permits foreign investors from member countries to own up to 51% of the charter capital in game companies since 2019.

Effective from January 14, 2024, foreign investors from CPTPP member countries will be allowed to have complete ownership, up to 100% of the charter capital, in game companies operating in Vietnam.

“Starting January 14, 2024, foreign investors from CPTPP member countries can own 100% of electronic game companies in Vietnam.” Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS – Global Business Services LLC told reporter

Presently, under Decree No. 72/2013/ND-CP (as amended by Decree No. 27/2018/ND-CP), foreign service providers of online games are obligated to establish local entities to provide their services in Vietnam. This implies that cross-border provision of online games from outside Vietnam is prohibited. Any foreign company wishing to offer game services in Vietnam must establish an entity in the country and locally publish their games. The foreign ownership ratio in such game companies must comply with international treaties that Vietnam is a party to.

According to Vietnam’s WTO commitments, a local game company must be set up as a joint venture with a Vietnamese partner specifically licensed to provide online gaming services. The foreign capital contribution must not exceed 49% of the joint venture’s charter capital.

As Vietnam is a member of the CPTPP, foreign investors from CPTPP member countries can apply market access conditions outlined in the CPTPP instead of those in the WTO commitments. In the electronic game sector, the market access conditions for foreign investors, as stated in Annex 1 of Vietnam’s CPTPP commitments, are:

  • Foreign investment of up to 51% of the charter capital is allowed in enterprises providing electronic game services over the Internet.
  • Five years after the CPTPP’s entry into force for Vietnam, foreign ownership restrictions for electronic game services will be eliminated.

Given that the CPTPP entered into force for Vietnam on January 14, 2019, the five-year period expires on January 14, 2024. Consequently:

  • From January 14, 2019, foreign investors from CPTPP member countries may own up to 51% of the charter capital in Vietnam companies providing electronic games over the Internet.
  • From January 14, 2024, foreign investors from CPTPP member countries may own up to 100% of the charter capital in game companies providing electronic games over the Internet.

In practice, licensing authorities in Vietnam have already been applying the new market access conditions under the CPTPP in other sectors, such as advertising services. The application of these conditions to online electronic games is anticipated in the near future.

Analyst Urges Action on VinFast Stock

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While several EV startups have set their sights on claiming a chunk of the global EV market, the segment has been less than kind to upstart OEMs. Plenty have suffered against a backdrop of higher interest rates, elevated pricing and waning demand.

However, as the ongoing shift to an EV world continues, one company looks well-set-up to carve a piece out of the market. That at least is the opinion of BTIG analyst Gregory Lewis, when assessing the prospects of Vietnam-based auto manufacturer VinFast Auto (NASDAQ:VFS).

“Key to VFS’ success should continue to be the backing from parent Vingroup, the largest conglomerate in Vietnam,” the analyst explained. “The founder and largest shareholder has committed ~$2.5B in grants/loans (should all be distributed by April 2024) and we view the founder’s backing as crucial as VFS looks to scale globally.”

The backing, says Lewis, differentiates VFS from the pack. The firm was established in 2017 as a subsidiary of Vingroup, which is led by the country’s wealthiest individual, Pham Nhat Vuong. Vingroup has a significant presence in various sectors, including technology, industrial, real estate, and services.

The company, which designs and manufactures EVs, e-scooters, and e-buses, went public last August through a SPAC merger, providing it with approximately $1.5 billion in cash post de-SPAC, which will be used to expand the brand internationally. Earlier in the year, the company introduced its initial batch of cars to the US market using a direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach. However, in December, it announced its first dealership partner in North Carolina, indicating a hybrid sales strategy as it seeks to boost sales in North America.

The pivotal element in VFS’s expansion into North America is its facility in North Carolina, where construction began in July 2023. The facility is projected to become operative in 2025, starting with an initial capacity of approximately 150,000 electric vehicles per year. In comparison, VFS’s main facility in Vietnam boasts a capacity in the range between 250,000 to 300,000 EVs per year. The company anticipates an aggressive scaling of production driven by growing demand in both Vietnam and North America. Furthermore, VFS aims to extend its sales reach to around 50 global markets.

“Bottom line,” Lewis summed up, “while the EV market faced headwinds in 2023, forcing many OEMs to delay production, VFS’ founder backing and existing Asian footprint outside China should be key differentiators as global EV demand increases longer-term.”

Accordingly, Lewis rates VFS stock a Buy, while his $10 price target suggests shares will climb 44% higher over the coming months. (To watch Lewis’s track record, click here)

2 other analysts have waded in with VFS reviews, and like Lewis, they are both positive, providing the stock with a Strong Buy consensus rating. At $9.67, the average target makes room for 12-month returns of ~40%. (See VinFast stock forecast)

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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.

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