YouTube opens game library for Premium users

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YouTube continues to take new initiatives to attract more customers to use the YouTube Premium service.

According to GizmoChina, in a new effort to encourage users to subscribe to the Premium paid service, YouTube is rolling out a new feature called Playables. This feature is a standalone part of the YouTube app or desktop website, allowing users to play games without having to download them.

When accessing Playables, users will see two tabs: Home and Browse. The Home tab will display a list of recently played games and suggest popular game titles. Meanwhile, the Browse tab allows users to explore and choose games they want to experience.

Interface of the new Playables game library on YouTube

The highlight of Playables is that all games can be played directly within the YouTube app or website. This will make it easy for users to experience games quickly.

Currently, Playables is in the beta testing phase and only a select group of Premium subscribers can access it. However, YouTube plans to expand access to Playables in the coming months. Some popular games available on the gaming service include Angry Birds Showdown, Brain Out, and Daily Solitaire. While the game library still has relatively little content, YouTube expects to add more games in the future.

The platform’s plan is to operate Playables until March 28, 2024, after which YouTube will evaluate the service’s performance and make a decision about its future. If Playables proves capable of attracting users, it could become a long-term investment goal for Google.

YouTube is not the first online video streaming service to provide electronic games to subscribers. Netflix introduced its own arcade games in November 2021, but it did not gain much traction. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether Playables can outperform Netflix or not.

@Thanhnien.vn

ARK Invest Sold $5M Worth of Grayscale Bitcoin Trust Shares Last Week

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The sales took place as the discount for Grayscale’s bitcoin investment vehicle narrowed to its lowest in over two years, a sign of escalating optimism that a spot bitcoin ETF will finally be approved in the U.S.

Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest sold more shares in Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) last week, offloading 163,722 to earn $5.02 million at closing prices while the investment vehicle’s discount to its net asset value narrowed to the least in more than two years.

The sales took the November total of shares dropped by the Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW) to 579,077, earning it about $16.9 million based on the relevant day’s closing share price.

ARK Invest often loads up on crypto-related shares when they have experienced a downward trend and sells them as they look more bullish to bank some profits.

The discount shrank to 8.6% on Friday, the lowest since July 2021, in a sign of escalating optimism that a spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) will finally be approved in the U.S. Analysts attributed the improvement to Grayscale’s meeting with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) about turning the trust into a spot ETF. The discount hit a record low of almost 50% last December.

Cosmos Founder Calls for Chain Split; ATOM Down 3%

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Cosmos Hub is an intermediary among all independent blockchains created within the Cosmos network. ATOM powers the Cosmos ecosystem of blockchains programmed to scale and interoperate with each other.

Cosmos’ founder Jae Kwon favours splitting the blockchain into two following a decision by the community to reduce Cosmos’ native token ATOM’s inflation to 10%.

The hard fork, dubbed AtomOne, could be bullish for ATOM token, according to one observer.

ATOM, the native coin of Cosmos Hub, is nursing moderate losses a day after Comos’ founder Jae Kwon called community members to split the blockchain into two, with one observer hailing the potential hard fork as a bullish outcome for the investor community.

“Let’s coordinate a split,” Kwon said Sunday, following a decision by the community to the Cosmos community to approve a proposal to reduce ATOM’s inflation to 10% from 14%. Cosmos Hub is an intermediary among all independent blockchains created within the Cosmos network. ATOM powers the Cosmos ecosystem of blockchains programmed to scale and interoperate with each other.

The so-called proposal 848, approved with 41.1% support for the reduction from the participating voting power and 31.9% against it, said that ATOM’s double-digit inflation rate represented overpayment by the Hub for security and disincentivized ATOM’s use in decentralized finance. The approved change is projected to bring down Atom’s annualized staking yield from approximately 19% to about 13.4%. Staking refers to locking coins in a blockchain in return for rewards.

Kwon, however, wasn’t impressed and called for the hard fork.

“Despite our voting against the plan… 848 has ended up passing, something that isn’t too surprising (though it would be good to know whether the later votes came from newly purchased ATOMs),” Kwon said on X.

Kwon referred to the hard fork as AtomOne, which would fork the Cosmos Hub, calling for a final plan whereby the forked chain would support ATOM token along with the native ATOM1.

“I believe that the final plan should include an integration of $ATOM and $ATMO/$ATOM1 so that instead of mass selling $ATOM and collapsing it all, we allow participation from $ATOM, but what is in the README can be improved. Tokenomics people take a shot,” Kwon said on X.

According to X user “John Galt,” an expert on Comos and head of the strategy at Stride Zone, a potential hard fork could resolve years of community infighting and bode well for ATOM token holders.

“A fork would be very bullish. For years, political tension has impeded the development of Cosmos Hub. Most notably when the ATOM 2.0 proposal was vetoed in the Fall of 2022,” Galt said on X. “Without Jae’s conservatism, Cosmos Hub could be more innovative.”

Besides, Galt expects the hard fork to lead to the biggest airdrop for ATOM and could result in a massive increase in trading volume for both ATOM and ATOM1 tokens.

Airdrops involve blockchain-based projects and developers sending free tokens to the communities as part of a broader marketing initiative. When a chain splits, the native coin of the new blockchain is usually airdropped to token holders from the original blockchain.

“Jae is calling the new chain AtomOne (ATOM1). Most of the ATOM1 allocation would go to ATOM stakers pro-rata their amount. Unclear if liquid ATOM is included,” Galt said.

Still, as of writing, ATOM traded 3.5% lower on the day at $9.59, according to CoinDesk data. The cryptocurrency peeped above $10 over the weekend but failed to establish a foothold above the three-week-long resistance. The weakness perhaps stems from bitcoin, the industry leaders, struggling to get past the $38,000 mark.

Binance’s Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao Is a Manageable Flight Risk: U.S. DOJ

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The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) argues that Binance’s former CEO should remain free until sentencing – but only in the U.S.

The U.S. Department of Justice doesn’t want Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao locked up until sentencing, but it doesn’t want him to leave the United States either, arguing in a new filing that he’s a “flight risk that could be managed.”

Late last week, CZ’s counsel argued that the very fact he – a non-U.S. citizen holding UAE and Canadian passports – voluntarily entered the U.S. to appear before a court represents that he’s not a flight risk.

“Based on all the relevant facts, including Mr. Zhao’s voluntary self-surrender, his intent to resolve this case, and the sizable bail package he proposed, Judge Tsuchida found that Mr. Zhao presents no risk of flight, even while residing in the UAE,” last week’s filing said.

But U.S. Attorneys pushed back on that, arguing that the potential severity of the sentence would give Zhao incentive to flee back to the UAE, which has no extradition treaty with the U.S. Last week, prosecutors said Zhao, as a citizen of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), had “minimal ties to the U.S.” and may not return should he be allowed to leave.

“The reality is that the top-end of the Guidelines range may be as high as 18 months, and the United States is free to argue for any sentence up to the statutory maximum of ten years,” the filing reads. “The penalties he faces at sentencing will no doubt seem significant to him, and that weighs in favor of the reasonable restrictions the United States proposes.”

On Tuesday, Zhao pleaded guilty for breaking anti-money laundering laws in the U.S. and stepped down as Binance’s CEO. The exchange, meanwhile, pleading guilty to multiple criminal and civil charges, while agreeing to pay $4.3 billion in penalties, among the largest corporate fines in the history of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Fellow former exchange executive Sam Bankman-Fried, who is also awaiting sentencing, remains in custody.

A Guide to Establishing a Travel Company in Vietnam for Foreign Investors

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Embarking on the journey of starting a travel company in Vietnam opens up a myriad of opportunities for foreign investors. From the lively streets of Hanoi to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, Vietnam’s allure as a global tourist destination sets the stage for an exciting venture.

In this article, we will delve into the prospects of entering the travel industry in Vietnam, the conducive business environment, and the step-by-step process for foreign investors to establish their presence.

Services Offered by Foreign-Invested Travel Companies
As outlined in Vietnam’s 2017 Tourism Law, foreign-invested travel companies are authorized to offer international tours exclusively for inbound tourists. This limitation implies that these companies can organize trips for international travelers exploring various destinations within Vietnam.

Starting a Travel Company in Vietnam: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Legal Entity Registration:
Foreign investors must initiate the process by registering a legal entity for their travel company. However, it’s crucial to note that 100% foreign ownership is not permitted in Vietnam’s tourism sector. Instead, investors are required to establish a joint venture with a Vietnamese partner.

2. Application for Investment Registration Certificate (IRC):
Obtaining an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) from the Department of Planning and Investment is the next crucial step. This certificate officially acknowledges foreign investment in Vietnam.

3. Application for Business Registration Certificate (BRC):
Investors need to apply for a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) from the Department of Planning and Investment. This certificate serves as official recognition of the business as a legal entity in Vietnam and requires specific documentation.

  • Application form for business registration
  • Draft of the company’s charter
  • List of members/shareholders
  • Copies of relevant personal identification

4. Tourism License from VNAT:
To operate a tourism business in Vietnam, a license for providing international tours from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) is mandatory. Article 31 of the 2017 Law on Tourism outlines the criteria businesses must meet to secure this license.

  • Legally established business in accordance with Vietnamese law
  • Deposit of 50 million VND (approximately $2129) as a security measure
  • Person in charge must have a diploma in tourism management or international travel management certification

Documents required for a tourism license application include:

  • Application form
  • Certified true copy of the BRC
  • Certificate of deposit payment
  • Certified true copy of the decision on appointment or employment contract for the person in charge
  • Certified true copy of the qualifications of the person in charge

Services like GBS can streamline the process for foreign businesses, facilitating license acquisition and documentation.

Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Vietnam’s recognition as “Asia’s Leading Destination 2023” underscores its vast potential in the tourism industry. Foreign investors can explore diverse activities, such as:

1. Adventure Tourism Company:
Capitalize on Vietnam’s diverse offerings by creating adventure tourism packages. Activities like trekking, wildlife spotting, kayaking, rock climbing in Ha Long Bay, and canyoning in Da Lat present exciting opportunities.

2. Wellness and Health Tourism Company:
Tap into the growing wellness sector by establishing wellness retreats. Collaborate with local retreats to offer traditional Vietnamese therapies, catering to the increasing demand for wellness tourism globally.

3. Cultural Tourism Company:
With over 40,000 historical landmarks and eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry provides a fertile ground for cultural tourism. Investors can curate experiences that showcase the country’s historical and cultural treasures, attracting tourists from around the world.

In conclusion, venturing into the Vietnamese travel industry as a foreign investor requires navigating legal procedures and leveraging the diverse opportunities the country offers. With careful planning and compliance, the journey of establishing a travel company in Vietnam can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor.

Market Watch: Vietnam Financial Market Overview from November 20 – November 24

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Foreign Currency Market:

In the week spanning from November 20 to November 24, the domestic foreign currency market witnessed notable fluctuations. The State Bank, in the first three sessions, sharply decreased the central exchange rate, followed by a slight increase. By the closing on November 24, the central exchange rate reached 23,927 VND/USD, marking a decrease of 45 VND from the previous weekend session. The spot buying exchange rate remained at 23,400 VND/USD, while the spot exchange rate for the weekend session settled at 25,073 VND/USD, 50 VND below the exchange rate ceiling.

The interbank exchange rate experienced initial decline but rebounded towards the end of the week. Closing on November 24, the interbank exchange rate concluded at 24,268 VND/USD, reflecting a 20 VND increase from the preceding weekend session.

Free market exchange rates remained relatively stable throughout the week. By the end of the session on November 24, the free exchange rate decreased by 60 VND on the buying side and 40 VND on the selling side, standing at 24,440 VND/USD and 24,560 VND/USD, respectively.

Interbank Currency Market:

In the VND interbank market, interest rates witnessed a general decrease for terms of 1M or less during the week. As of November 24, interest rates were as follows: ON 0.20% (unchanged), 1W 0.30% (-0.10 dpt), 2W 0.49% (-0.11 dpt), 1M 0.98% (-0.24 ppt).

USD interbank interest rates experienced a slight decrease across all terms, with the November 24 weekend session rates at ON 5.06% (-0.01 ppt), 1W 5.14% (-0.03 dpt), 2W 5.25% (-0.02 ppt), and 1M 5.35% (-0.02 ppt).

Open Market:

On the open market, the State Bank offered a 7-day term on the mortgage channel with a volume of 5,000 billion VND and an interest rate of 4.0%, with no winning bid volume or circulating volume.

The SBV refrained from offering SBV bills for bidding, resulting in a net injection of VND 25,549.9 billion into the market. The total volume of T-bills circulating in the market decreased to VND 71,749.9 billion.

Bond Market:

Social Policy Bank offered 4,000 billion VND of Government Bonds on November 20, with a winning volume of 2,800 billion VND (70%). Interest rates for the 10Y and 15Y terms were 3.0% (-0.15 ppt) and 3.4% (-0.2 ppt), respectively.

On November 22, the State Treasury offered VND 4,000 billion in government bonds with a 100% winning rate. Interest rates for the 10Y, 15Y, and 30Y terms were 2.37% (-0.10 ppt), 2.59% (-0.11 ppt), and 3.05% (no change), respectively.

This week, the State Treasury offered 6,000 billion VND in government bonds.

The secondary market’s Outright and Repos transactions averaged 7,790 billion VND/session, up from the previous week. Government bond yields continued to decrease, with rates on November 24 around 1Y 1.65% (-0.06 ppt), 2Y 1.66% (-0.06 ppt), 3Y 1.67% (-0.06 ppt), 5Y 1.73% (-0.05 ppt), 7Y 2.15% (+0.001 dpt), 10Y 2.41% (-0.11 ppt), 15Y 2.63% (-0.07 ppt), 30Y 3.16% (-0.04 ppt).

Stock Market:

In the week from November 20 to November 24, the stock market experienced minimal fluctuations, closing with VN-Index at 1,095.61 points (-0.51%), HNX-Index at 226.10 points (-0.19%), and UPCom-Index at 84.99 points (-1.20%).

Market liquidity remained consistent with an average transaction value of over 20,500 billion VND/session. Foreign investors continued to net sell nearly 470 billion VND across all three exchanges.

National Assembly Postpones Approval of Amended Credit Institutions Law

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During the 6th Session on November 23, the National Assembly decided against the passage of the amended Law on Credit Institutions. Despite several approved contents compared to the draft presented at the 5th Session, the Assembly opted to allow relevant agencies to further research, absorb, and revise the submitted draft.

The revised Draft Law now comprises 15 chapters and 203 articles, an increase of 2 chapters and 8 articles. The amendments include 158 revised articles in comparison to the version presented at the 5th Session. The development of the draft aligns with the policy of restructuring the credit institutions system, refining monetary and banking institutions in line with market principles, and ensuring system safety, health, and stability. The focus is on enha[inline_related_posts title=”You Might Be Interested In” title_align=”left” style=”list” number=”3″ align=”none” ids=”” by=”tags” orderby=”rand” order=”DESC” hide_thumb=”no” thumb_right=”no” views=”no” date=”yes” grid_columns=”2″ post_type=”” tax=””]ncing transparency, competition, and adopting international best practices while incorporating new development trends.

The specific changes in the draft law encompass regulations addressing the manipulation and domination of credit institutions. These include adjustments to regulations on related persons to suit the type of PCF, altering the share ownership ratio for individual shareholders to 5%, and stipulating a roadmap to gradually reduce credit limits. The draft also emphasizes governance and management capabilities, limiting the abuse of major shareholders’ rights and enhancing transparency in operating activities.

 

Financial, accounting, and reporting aspects of credit institutions are addressed in the draft law, including concepts of charter capital, revenue recognition principles, and regulations on increasing charter capital for state-owned commercial banks. Early intervention measures have been revised, giving the Prime Minister authority over special loans to controlled credit institutions in specific cases.

Risk provision regulations have been restructured, now being regulated by the Government instead of the Governor of the State Bank. The draft law also introduces changes to various areas such as letters of credit, license granting authority, standards for managers and executives, information disclosure, and the operations of non-bank credit institutions.

A new chapter on Policy Bank with 11 articles has been added. The National Assembly proposes the development of a separate Law on public banks to create a clear legal basis for their operation.

Recognizing the complexity and sensitivity of this law project, the National Assembly deems it crucial for national financial security and the safety of the credit institutions system. They emphasize the need for meticulous research on a scientific and practical basis to ensure the law’s quality and avoid inadequacies that could impact the banking system and socio-economic activities. Consequently, the Assembly has decided not to pass the Draft Law during the 6th Session, intending to consider and pass it at the next session, allowing ample time for thorough study and review by relevant agencies.

China trials visa-free entry for citizens of 6 countries

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China has recently exempted several countries from visa requirements, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. This exemption will be in effect from December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024, and will allow holders of ordinary passports from these countries to travel, work, visit relatives and friends, and transit for up to 15 days in China without the need for a visa.

However, those who do not meet the visa exemption requirements will still need to apply for a visa before entering China. This move by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is aimed at promoting people-to-people exchanges and supporting high-quality development and strong economic growth.

Korean tourists love coming to Vietnam

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Vietnam has been experiencing a significant rise in its tourism industry, with a substantial increase in the number of Korean tourists visiting the country in the first nine months of 2023. According to immigration data, Vietnam ranked second among the favorite tourist destinations for Koreans, with Da Nang being the most popular city. The country also made it to the list of the top five countries with the most number of passengers using flights.

Vietnam’s top ten international tourist markets include Korea, mainland China, America, Taiwan (China), Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Australia, and Singapore. Japanese tourists have been the most frequent visitors to the country, closely followed by Korean tourists. Vietnam’s warm weather and relatively low prices compared to Korea are some of the reasons why it has become a favorite destination among Korean tourists. They also enjoy exploring the country’s scenic destinations such as Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, Ha Long, and Sa Pa.

Travel businesses have expressed their optimism about the future of Vietnam’s tourism industry, with many Korean tourists expected to visit the country in the coming months and early 2024. Overall, this trend is a positive development for Vietnam’s economy and its growing tourism sector.

Why More People are Choosing to Invest in Franchises

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In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals and entrepreneurs choosing to invest in franchises. From well-known fast food chains to niche fitness studios, franchises have become a favoured alternative for those looking to start their own business. But what exactly is propelling this trend?

This article will examine the reasons why franchises are becoming a popular option for aspiring entrepreneurs and how they can offer an irregular opportunity for success and expansion. So, if you’re contemplating investing in a franchise, keep reading to discover why it could be an intelligent move for your future.

What are Franchises, and Where can Franchises be Found?

Franchises are business models in which a company grants individuals the right to operate a branch of their business under their brand name. These individuals, known as franchisees, are provided with a proven business model, training, and ongoing support from the franchisor. Franchises can be found in miscellaneous industries, including food and beverage, retail, healthcare, fitness, and more. They can be located in shopping centres, high streets, industrial areas, or even online using popular directories of franchises for sale. From popular fast food chains like McDonald’s and Subway to boutique fitness studios like F45 and Pure Barre, franchises are everywhere, presenting myriad opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Unveiling the Rise of Franchises

Over the past few years, franchises have experienced a significant surge in popularity. This can be attributed to several facets, such as the desire for established business models and the support provided by franchisors. Franchises offer individuals the chance to become their own boss, while still benefiting from the resources and expertise of a more prominent brand. This attraction has led to an upsurge in the number of franchise opportunities available in different industries. As more people become aware of the advantages and potential success of franchise ownership, the rise of franchises is probable to persist.

Understanding the Appeal of Franchises

The appeal of franchises lies in the unique combination of independence and support they offer to aspiring entrepreneurs. By investing in a franchise, individuals can become their own boss and have the freedom to run their own business. At the same time, they benefit from the proven business model, training, and ongoing support the franchisor supplies. This allows them to dodge the pitfalls of starting a business from scratch and boosts their probability of success. Franchises also provide a feeling of security, as they are associated with established brands and have a higher likelihood of enticing customers. Overall, franchises offer an exceptional opportunity for individuals to reach their business goals with the backing of a larger brand.

Things to Consider Before Venturing into a Franchise Business

Before diving into a franchise business, a few essential factors must be considered. Firstly, research the franchise thoroughly and ensure it aligns with your interests and goals. Look into the company’s reputation, financial stability, and success rate. It’s also crucial to understand the franchise agreement and any fees involved. Take into account the level of support and training provided by the franchisor, as well as the ongoing expenses and royalties you will need to pay. Lastly, consider the location and market potential for the franchise in your desired area. Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of success in the franchise business.

The Future of Franchising

As the popularity of franchises continues to grow, the future of franchising looks bright. With their advantages, such as a proven business model and ongoing support, franchises provide a viable option for entrepreneurs looking for a successful venture. The franchising industry constantly evolves and adjusts to emerging customer trends and demands. This means there will always be new opportunities for aspiring franchisees to explore, whether in emerging or existing industries. As the franchise market expands, it opens doors for individuals to achieve their business goals and flourish under the umbrella of established brands.

Conclusion

In a world where entrepreneurship is ascending, franchises offer individuals a distinctive opportunity to achieve their business objectives. The allure lies in the combination of independence and support that franchises provide. Aspiring entrepreneurs can become their own bosses while benefiting from a proven business model and ongoing support from the franchisor. With the constant evolution of the franchising industry, new opportunities are constantly emerging. As more people recognise the potential for success and the advantages franchises offer, it’s clear that investing in a franchise is a smart move for those looking to secure their future in business.

350 chuyên gia cùng nhau phác thảo Kỷ nguyên mới ngành Bảo hiểm Việt Nam

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Công ty TNHH Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ Prudential Việt Nam (“Prudential”) đăng cai tổ chức Hội nghị Định phí Bảo hiểm Việt Nam 2023 (Vietnam Actuarial Conference 2023 – VAC 2023). Hội nghị có sự tham dự của hơn 350 chuyên gia trong và ngoài nước, cùng thảo luận về chủ đề “Kỷ nguyên mới của ngành bảo hiểm” (The Next Insurance Era).

Hội nghị Định phí Bảo hiểm Việt Nam là sự kiện thường niên lớn nhất ngành Bảo hiểm. Bên cạnh sự góp mặt của Cục Quản lý và Giám sát Bảo hiểm (Bộ Tài chính), Hiệp hội Bảo hiểm Việt Nam (IAV) và Hiệp hội Định phí Hoa Kỳ (SOA), VAC 2023 còn quy tụ các đại diện đến từ 19 doanh nghiệp Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ (BHNT), các nhà tái Bảo hiểm quốc tế hàng đầu như RGA (Hoa Kỳ), Swiss Re (Thụy Sĩ), Gen Re (Hoa Kỳ), Pacific Life Re (Hoa Kỳ), Scor (Pháp) và Munich Re (Đức) và một số trường Đại học lớn của Việt Nam.

Hơn 350 khách mời tham dự Hội nghị Định phí Bảo hiểm Việt Nam 2023 với chủ đề “Kỷ nguyên mới của ngành bảo hiểm”

Với chủ đề “Kỷ nguyên mới của ngành bảo hiểm”, VAC 2023 đem đến một góc nhìn toàn cảnh về thị trường Bảo hiểm tại Việt Nam thông qua 4 bài tham luận của các chuyên gia đến từ RGA, Swiss Re, Gen Re và Pacific Life Re xoay quanh các chủ đề phân tích vai trò của chuyên gia định phí và ngành Bảo hiểm trong việc đáp ứng nhu cầu của khách hàng, Bacassurance 2.0 và các sản phẩm thế hệ mới giúp nâng cao trải nghiệm khách hàng, áp dụng các phương pháp phân tích dữ liệu hiện đại để tối ưu hóa quy trình thẩm định, và ứng dụng học máy (machine learning) để thẩm định và dự đoán rủi ro Bảo hiểm.

Phát biểu mở đầu sự kiện, bà Lý Thị Thu Thủy, Trưởng phòng Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ, Cục quản lý, giám sát bảo hiểm, Bộ Tài chính chia sẻ: “Tôi đánh giá rất cao những nội dung được thảo luận trong sự kiện ngày hôm nay. Đây thực sự là dịp tốt để cho tất cả các bạn hoạt động trong ngành định phí Bảo hiểm có cơ hội được cập nhật những kiến thức, cũng như nội dung mới từ các đồng nghiệp, các chuyên gia nước ngoài. Đồng thời, đây cũng là cơ hội để giao lưu, học hỏi và lan toả tình yêu đối với nghề định phí Bảo hiểm”.

Bà Lý Thị Thu Thủy, Trưởng phòng Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ, Cục quản lý, giám sát bảo hiểm, Bộ Tài chính phát biểu mở đầu sự kiện

Trải qua năm 2023 đầy thăng trầm và biến động, VAC 2023 là sự kiện quy tụ toàn ngành bảo hiểm cùng chung tay khôi phục niềm tin thị trường, mở ra một chương mới hướng tới sự phát triển bền vững. Ông Phương Tiến Minh, Tổng Giám Đốc Prudential Việt Nam chia sẻ tại Hội nghị: “Những thử thách và thay đổi trong năm 2023 đã mở ra kỷ nguyên mới cho ngành Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ tại Việt Nam, đặc biệt sau khi Thông tư 67 của Luật Kinh doanh Bảo hiểm ra đời vào ngày 2/11 vừa qua. Kỷ nguyên mới của ngành cần sự chung tay của tất cả các bên để mang lại sự tăng trưởng bền vững và đặt khách hàng làm trọng tâm”.

Ông Phương Tiến Minh, Tổng Giám Đốc Prudential Việt Nam phát biểu tại Hội nghị

Nổi bật trong hội nghị VAC 2023 là phiên tọa đàm với chủ đề “Mở khóa Tăng trưởng Bền vững: Ứng dụng ESG trong Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ” được điều phối bởi ông Trần Thanh Phong, Phó Tổng Giám đốc Marketing của Prudential Việt Nam, cùng với sự tham dự của 3 đại diện tới từ RGA, Swiss Re và Gen Re. 

Ông Trần Thanh Phong, Phó Tổng Giám Đốc Prudential Việt Nam (ngoài cùng bên trái) cùng đại diện đến từ các công ty tái Bảo hiểm: RGA, Gen Re và Swiss Re trong phiên tọa đàm với chủ đề “Mở khóa Tăng trưởng Bền vững: Ứng dụng ESG trong Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ”

Phiên tọa đàm đi sâu phân tích về chiến lược ESG trong ngành Bảo hiểm, các thực hành ESG của các doanh nghiệp tại Việt Nam cũng như bài học kinh nghiệm từ các thị trường phát triển. 

Bà Elena Quek – Giám đốc Phát triển Kinh doanh thị trường Đông Nam Á, Công ty tái Bảo hiểm Quốc tế RGA chia sẻ một gợi ý cho các doanh nghiệp Bảo hiểm tại Việt Nam: 

“Trên hành trình cùng Chính phủ Việt Nam hiện thực hóa mục tiêu 15% dân số tham gia Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ vào năm 2025, các doanh nghiệp Bảo hiểm nói chung và bộ phận Định phí Bảo hiểm (Actuary) nói riêng cũng như các nhà hoạch định chính sách cần đặc biệt chú ý tới nhóm dân số già (trên 65 tuổi). Việt Nam đang trải qua giai đoạn già hóa dân số nhanh. Dự đoán tới năm 2050 Việt Nam sẽ có thêm 17 triệu người già. Đây là nhóm dân số cần được bảo vệ. Và đây cùng là một trong những khía cạnh liên quan tới yếu tố Xã hội của ESG”.

Ở chiều ngược lại, có thể thấy khách hàng ngày càng nhận thấy tầm quan trọng của ESG. Họ có xu hướng tìm đến các DNBH có các sản phẩm hướng đến ESG, thể hiện quan điểm, mục tiêu đạo đức và giá trị của mình thông qua các quyết định tài chính. Cũng có thể nói rằng khẩu vị của khách hàng đang dẫn dắt thị trường, khi các DNBH đang đưa ra những chính sách mới liên quan đến ESG và cải thiện tính minh bạch của mình trong thực hành ESG để đáp ứng kỳ vọng của khách hàng. Hơn nữa, những tiến bộ công nghệ, đặc biệt là phân tích dữ liệu, đang giúp các công ty bảo hiểm đánh giá rủi ro và cơ hội ESG hiệu quả hơn, cho phép họ đưa ra quyết định đầu tư và thẩm định sáng suốt hơn.

Ông Phương Tiến Minh, Tổng Giám Đốc Prudential Việt Nam cảm ơn các đơn vị tài trợ đã đồng hành cùng Hội nghị.

Thông qua VAC 2023, các công ty BHNT và các đối tác đã cùng nhau nêu bật tầm quan trọng của chuyển đổi công nghệ, tầm nhìn đặt khách hàng làm trọng tâm, và hướng tới phát triển bền vững bằng cách thực hành chiến lược ESG.

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Về Prudential Việt Nam

Công ty TNHH Bảo hiểm Nhân thọ Prudential Việt Nam (Prudential) là thành viên thuộc Tập đoàn Prudential plc, tập đoàn cung cấp các giải pháp bảo hiểm nhân thọ, sức khỏe và quản lý tài sản tại 24 thị trường trên khắp Châu Á và Châu Phi. Sứ mệnh của Prudential là trở thành người bạn đồng hành và người bảo vệ đáng tin cậy nhất cho các thế hệ hôm nay và mai sau, thông qua việc cung cấp các giải pháp tài chính và sức khỏe đơn giản và dễ tiếp cận. 

Với 24 năm hoạt động tại Việt Nam, Prudential đã và đang phục vụ 7 triệu lượt khách hàng và không ngừng tập trung mở rộng thị trường bảo hiểm nhân thọ, thay đổi nhận thức của mọi người về bảo hiểm. Prudential hiện giữ vị trí số 1 tại thị trường Việt Nam và vị trí số 6 toàn cầu về số lượng MDRT* với 1.976 thành viên. 

Thực hiện cam kết đảm bảo an toàn tài chính cho khách hàng, trong 6 tháng đầu năm 2023, Prudential đã chi trả tổng quyền lợi bảo hiểm 5.977 tỷ đồng, chiếm 23% tổng số chi trả của toàn ngành bảo hiểm nhân thọ tại Việt Nam.

Với khẩu hiệu “Lắng nghe. Thấu Hiểu. Hành động.”, Prudential khẳng định cam kết luôn đặt khách hàng làm trọng tâm trong mọi hoạt động, mang đến những giải pháp sáng tạo và toàn diện để bảo vệ an toàn tài chính, giúp khách hàng gia tăng tài sản và chủ động làm chủ các kế hoạch trong cuộc đời của mình.

Vietnam entered the top 10 Global Beauty Country of the Year 2023

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Global Beauties, a famous beauty site, has recently released its annual ranking of the top 10 countries in the world of beauty. The ranking is based on the performance of each country’s representatives in five major beauty pageants: Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Grand International, and Miss Supranational. According to Global Beauties, all contests except Miss World have already taken place.

Vietnam is ranked 9th place on the list of GB Country of the Year 2023

Peru is currently leading the rankings with a total of 4,875 points. This is due to their impressive wins in the Miss Grand International contest, as well as strong showings in other pageants such as Miss Supranational and Miss Universe. Following closely behind are Venezuela with 3,676 points, Colombia with 3,375 points, Nicaragua with 3,003 points, Thailand with 2,875 points, Ecuador with 2,753 points, Philippines with 2,626 points, Puerto Rico with 2,225 points, Vietnam with 1,976 points and the Dominican Republic with 1,526 points.

Dang Thanh Ngan (4th runner-up Miss Supranational) and Nguyen Phuong Nhi (Top 15 Miss International) helped Vietnam win achievements in beauty contests

Vietnam, which is ranked 9th on the list, has had an impressive year in terms of beauty pageant achievements. Le Hoang Phuong, Dang Thanh Ngan, and Nguyen Phuong Nhi have all placed highly in various pageants. However, Bui Quynh Hoa did not win any prizes in Miss Universe.

Miss World is the only contest that has not yet taken place this year and is scheduled to be held in March 2024. Beauty contestant Huynh Nguyen Mai Phuong will be representing Vietnam in the competition, and will compete against approximately 100 other contestants from around the world. Huynh Nguyen Mai Phuong expressed her determination to showcase Vietnam’s beauty and capabilities to the world and stated that she will do her best to not disappoint anyone.

@thanhnien.vn

Austria’s Raiffeisen Bank to Roll Out Crypto Trading for Retail Customers in January

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The bank will start its crypto services to customers in Vienna in partnership with Bitpanda.

Austria’s Raiffeisen Bank International will roll out cryptocurrency trading services to retail customers by the end of January 2024.

The service will initially be offered to customers in Vienna, where the 97-year-old bank is headquartered, and be provided in association with cryptocurrency exchange Bitpanda, which signed a letter of intent with the bank earlier this year.

“We are starting in Vienna where about a quarter of Austria’s population lives,” Curt Chadha, the bank’s head of innovation, said in an interview. “The customer can use their mobile device to enter Bitpanda through the Raiffeisen app. The experience will be familiar, so confirming a trade will work exactly like an account-to-account bank transfer with the same sort of security customers are used to.”

The move by the bank, which has some $215 billion in assets and 17.8 billion customers across the European Union and eastern Europe, is another sign of crypto adoption ramping up, particularly in jurisdictions where clarity around rules is emerging.

Chadha said the service is aimed at customers who are digital savvy, but perhaps only want to make a small investment, as opposed to offerings from other banks, which are aimed at wealthy individuals with millions to invest.

Bitpanda, which was founded in Vienna in 2014, is under the supervision of the FMA in Austria and BaFin in Germany, and enables firms to offer regulated trading, investment, and custody services for stocks/ETFs, cryptocurrencies, precious metals, and commodities.

Bitcoin Supply Inactive for a Year Hits Record High of 70%

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It appears bitcoin holders are not planning on offloading inventory at these price levels or any time soon, one observer said.

The percentage of Bitcoin’s (BTC) circulating supply that was last active on-chain at least a year ago has reached a record high of 70.35%, surpassing the previous peak of 69.35% in July, according to data tracked by blockchain analytics firm Glassnode.

The new lifetime high reflects “a strong belief from bitcoin’s holder base in the wake of crypto-wide contagion and macro headwinds after its all-time highs in 2021,” according to Reflexivity Research.

The percentage of supply that has not moved on-chain in two, three, and five years is also at their respective lifetime highs. It shows long-term investors are in no mood to sell even after bitcoin has more than doubled to $37,000 this year.

“While higher prices will ultimately incentivize new sellers, with Bitcoin up over 100% in the same time period, it appears Bitcoin holders are not planning on offloading inventory at these price levels or any time soon,” Reflexivity Research said in a note to clients.

These metrics, however, may not paint an accurate picture once the financialization of bitcoin through alternative investment vehicles like spot-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and cash-settled futures gathers pace.

For instance, in the ETF case, an issuer, with the help of the authorized participant, will pool the cryptocurrency and move it to custody, where it sits idle (inactive). However, investors will still take bullish/bearish trades on an exchange through the ETF units.

Opening of the 4th Vietnam Cultural Heritage Festival – 2023

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The Thang Long Imperial Citadel and Cultural Heritage Site in Hanoi hosted the opening ceremony of “The Fourth Vietnam Cultural Heritage Festival – 2023”, organized by the UNESCO Center for Culture and Sports Development (Vietnam Union of UNESCO Associations) and the Thang Long Heritage Conservation Center – Hanoi. The event showcased various unique forms of Vietnamese cultural and artistic heritage, including the elegant áo dài performance by young designers and traditional folk games.

The Ao Dai performance in the collection “Fragrance of Hanoi” by designer Duong Quynh Giang

The program aimed to celebrate the noble values of Vietnamese cultural heritage, promote its value, and contribute to its sustainable conservation. Mr. Nguyen Phuc Luu, Director of the UNESCO Center for the Development of Culture and Sports, emphasized the importance of honoring Vietnam’s cultural heritage and recognizing it as a representative intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

This cultural festival provided an excellent opportunity for domestic and foreign communities, friends, and international visitors to experience and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. The previous three festivals have left remarkable artistic impressions, showcasing various national cultural heritage performances and practices.

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