Vietnam Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Istanbul to Save Passenger

Advertisements

Ho Chi Minh City – A Vietnam Airlines flight traveling from Frankfurt to Ho Chi Minh City was forced to make an emergency landing at Istanbul International Airport on September 17 to provide urgent medical care to a passenger.

According to Vietnam Airlines, the incident occurred about one hour after flight VN30 departed Frankfurt. A 57-year-old Vietnamese male passenger suddenly showed signs of a serious health problem.

The flight crew immediately issued a medical assistance call. Three doctors on board volunteered to provide first aid, but the passenger’s condition did not improve.

Faced with the emergency, the captain decided to divert the aircraft to Istanbul, where the plane landed safely. The passenger was quickly transferred to a local medical facility for treatment.

After completing necessary procedures, refueling, and coordinating with Turkish airport authorities, flight VN30 resumed its journey and arrived in Ho Chi Minh City at 5:32 PM local time—over three hours later than scheduled.

Previous Emergency Diversions

This is not the first time Vietnam Airlines has had to make an unscheduled landing due to medical emergencies.

  • On June 29, flight VN7569 from Hanoi to Cam Ranh diverted to Da Nang to save a passenger.

  • On May 5, flight VN35 from Hanoi to Frankfurt made an emergency landing at Erzurum Airport, Turkey, under similar circumstances.

Health Advisory for Passengers

Vietnam Airlines advises passengers to carefully monitor their health before traveling and consult doctors if necessary to ensure safe and smooth journeys.

Australia’s Award-Winning Vietnamese Restaurant Red Lantern to Close After 25 Years

Advertisements

Sydney, Australia – Red Lantern, one of the world’s most celebrated Vietnamese restaurants, has announced it will close its doors after 25 years, marking the end of an iconic chapter in Sydney’s dining scene.

In a heartfelt post on its official Facebook page, the restaurant shared:

“With a swirl of emotions, today we announce that our beloved Red Lantern – the most awarded Vietnamese restaurant in the world and an icon of Sydney’s culinary landscape – will close on November 22, 2025. This marks the end of a remarkable journey of food, family, and storytelling.”

A Culinary Legacy in Sydney

Located in Darlinghurst, Sydney, Red Lantern was co-founded by acclaimed chef Luke Nguyen, his sister Pauline Nguyen, and business partner Mark Jensen. Known for its authentic yet innovative Vietnamese flavors, the restaurant quickly became a must-visit destination for both locals and international visitors.

Over the years, Red Lantern has earned countless accolades and a reputation for blending food, culture, and community. For many diners, it was more than just a place to eat – it was a cultural experience.

While announcing the closure, the founders emphasized that this is “not the end,” but rather a milestone to reflect on the restaurant’s extraordinary legacy and to look ahead to future projects.

Farewell Events and Special Experiences

To commemorate its farewell, Red Lantern will host a series of special dining events celebrating Vietnamese cuisine, storytelling through food, and the shared experiences that have defined its legacy.

The news has left longtime patrons emotional. Many took to social media to share their memories and gratitude:

  • Christine Hammond, a Sydney resident, wrote:
    “I was so sad to read this announcement and will definitely come back one last time! Very few restaurants in Sydney survive 25 years, let alone with such an incredible journey. That in itself is a huge achievement.”

  • Tracey Cullen added:
    “Wishing you all the best on your next journey. Thank you for the many warm meals shared with family and friends – experiences we will never forget.”

  • Denise Gorrel praised the restaurant’s legacy:
    “Dining at Red Lantern was always a wonderful experience. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to enjoy your amazing food. Wishing you success in all that comes next.”

A Bittersweet Goodbye

For decades, Red Lantern has been a shining example of Vietnamese cuisine abroad, inspiring a generation of chefs and elevating the global profile of Vietnamese food. Its closure marks the end of an era, but fans worldwide will be watching eagerly to see what Luke Nguyen and his team create next.

Restaurant Sparks Backlash for $320 Bowl of Noodles

Advertisements

Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China – A small restaurant in Hangzhou has come under fire after charging more than 2,188 yuan (US$320 / VND 8.1 million) for a single bowl of noodles, sparking widespread criticism on Chinese social media.

According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on September 13, the controversy erupted when a diner shared the restaurant’s updated menu online, accusing the owner of overcharging customers.

The $320 Noodle Bowl

The restaurant’s menu, updated in August, shows nearly all dishes priced above 2,000 yuan (VND 7.4 million). The signature noodle dish costs 2,188 yuan and includes ingredients such as 270 grams of eel, 400 grams of red shrimp, 210 grams of abalone, along with smaller portions of onion, egg, or salted roe.

Customers requesting extra toppings, such as tomatoes, are charged an additional 20 yuan (US$2.70 / VND 74,000).

Despite the high prices, the restaurant itself is described as cramped and modest. The owner, identified as Mr. Wu, defended the pricing, claiming it reflects “Michelin-level skills” and the “exceptional quality” of the dishes.

“Customers will enjoy flavors far superior to other restaurants,” Wu insisted, noting that more than 10 people had already ordered the noodles, with some even taking them to Shanghai via high-speed rail.

Mixed Reactions from Influencers and Diners

However, many of these customers were social media influencers (KOLs) who bought the dish to create content. Their reviews sharply contrasted Wu’s claims, with several saying the quality did not justify the sky-high cost.

Images of the restaurant’s price list quickly went viral, with netizens blasting it as “daylight robbery.” One user commented: “The prices are even higher than luxury restaurants in Shanghai.” Another urged authorities to step in.

A user also shared a photo of the same restaurant’s menu from 2022, when its most expensive dish was priced at less than 70 yuan (US$9.60 / VND 260,000) — a stark contrast to today’s rates.

Legal Perspective

Local media reported that Wu has been running the restaurant since 2021. Initially, he did not cook himself, but later took over kitchen duties after staff resigned. Wu emphasized that the noodles are only cooked fresh upon order and use seafood sourced daily from local markets.

Legal experts, however, clarified that the restaurant is not violating any laws, as long as prices are clearly displayed and dishes accurately described.

Still, the incident has fueled heated online debates over price transparency, dining value, and social media hype culture in China’s evolving food scene.

China Delivers Major Blow to the U.S.: Orders Total Ban on Nvidia Chip Purchases, Shutting Out the World’s Largest Semiconductor Player

Advertisements

Vietnam Insider – In a decisive move to reduce reliance on U.S. technology and accelerate the growth of its domestic semiconductor industry, China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has ordered major technology companies, including Alibaba and ByteDance, to halt all purchases and testing of Nvidia’s AI chips.

According to the Financial Times, several Chinese firms had planned to order tens of thousands of Nvidia’s RTX Pro 6000D chips—designed specifically for mainland China—and had already begun testing and product validation with Nvidia’s server partners. However, following CAC’s directive this week, companies were instructed to suspend all related activities.

The scope of the ban goes far beyond earlier restrictions, which had only targeted Nvidia’s H20 chip, another model designed for China as a workaround to U.S. export controls.

Beijing’s decision follows its assessment that domestic AI processors have now reached, or even surpassed, the performance levels of Nvidia chips still permitted for sale in China.

A senior executive at a leading Chinese tech group said:

“The message is now crystal clear. Previously, there was hope that if geopolitical tensions eased, Nvidia’s supply chain could resume. But that expectation is gone. All resources are now focused on building a self-sustained domestic chip ecosystem.”

The sweeping ban underscores Beijing’s escalating pressure on domestic firms to prioritize homegrown semiconductor products as part of its long-term strategy to compete with the U.S. in the global AI race.

Nvidia had already redesigned several product lines—including the H20 and RTX Pro 6000D—to comply with Washington’s export restrictions on advanced semiconductors introduced under President Joe Biden. The RTX Pro 6000D, unveiled during CEO Jensen Huang’s visit to Beijing in July, has now also been blocked from the Chinese market.

Chinese regulators recently convened domestic chipmakers such as Huawei and Cambricon, along with tech giants like Alibaba and Baidu, to evaluate the performance of locally developed AI processors against Nvidia’s China-specific chips. The conclusion: local chips are now at or above the performance threshold of Nvidia’s remaining exportable products. This milestone is viewed as strategically significant, giving Beijing more leverage to take tougher measures.

According to FT, Chinese semiconductor firms are aiming to triple AI chip production next year to meet surging domestic demand and hedge against Western technology restrictions.

“Senior leadership now believes domestic chip supply will be sufficient to meet demand without relying on Nvidia,” one industry source said.

Speaking in London, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang expressed hope of discussing the company’s future operations in China during his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, who is on a state visit to the United Kingdom.

Before the ban, Nvidia’s RTX Pro 6000D chips were intended for use in areas such as industrial automation and large-scale AI model training. They were also the last major Nvidia product permitted for mass sales in China, one of the company’s most important markets.

How Far Could Vietnam’s Stock Market Soar if It Is Upgraded?

Advertisements

Vietnam Insider – Market experts are placing high hopes on the upcoming reclassification of Vietnam’s stock market. A potential upgrade could trigger a strong return of foreign capital as concerns over exchange rates ease.

Foreign Capital Could Flow Back Strongly

The VN-Index has surged 25.9% in just three months since early June, reflecting investors’ optimism about Vietnam’s economic and corporate outlook. The focus is now on the FTSE Russell’s upcoming market reclassification review, scheduled for October 7.

Speaking at a September 17 event, Lê Thành Hưng, Chief Investment Officer at UOBAM Vietnam, expressed confidence that Vietnam’s stock market could achieve an upgrade in the upcoming review. He highlighted the government’s strong determination to meet the criteria.

If the upgrade occurs, foreign capital inflows are expected to accelerate, boosting market liquidity and improving fundraising capacity for listed companies. Such a milestone would also strengthen investor sentiment domestically, encouraging local money to remain the market’s main driver.

Vietnam’s regulators are simultaneously pushing forward reforms in trading and settlement systems, foreign ownership rules, and the legal framework. These steps are laying a more sustainable foundation for the market and preparing it for a future upgrade under MSCI standards.

Economic Backdrop Remains Supportive

Looking ahead to year-end, experts maintain a positive outlook based on solid economic growth, robust public investment, and continued monetary easing. Vietnam’s government is targeting 16% credit growth to help achieve GDP expansion of 8.3–8.5% this year.

Legal bottlenecks in the real estate sector are being gradually resolved, restoring market confidence. At the same time, U.S. tariff risks have eased, supporting Vietnam’s export competitiveness and stabilizing foreign direct investment inflows.

In a recent report, HSBC estimated that in an optimistic scenario, an FTSE upgrade could attract up to US$10.4 billion in foreign capital inflows. However, actual investments are likely to be smaller and phased in over time.

Hanoi Stock Exchange. Photo: Duong Ngoc Dung
What Should Retail Investors Do?

Despite the market’s strong rally, foreign investors have recently been net sellers. As of the end of August, they recorded net sales worth 74 trillion VND (approx. US$3 billion), with more than half of that in August alone. The main drivers were exchange-rate concerns and profit-taking.

However, Mr. Hưng expects exchange-rate pressure to ease toward year-end as the U.S. Federal Reserve begins cutting interest rates, weakening the U.S. dollar and supporting the Vietnamese đồng. If currency risks subside, foreign capital is likely to return strongly, given Vietnam’s medium- to long-term growth prospects.

For late-2025 investment strategies, Mr. Hưng recommended focusing on domestically oriented sectors that are less dependent on exports and benefit directly from the government’s expansionary fiscal and monetary policies. These include:

  • Banking – benefiting from higher credit growth targets.
  • Securities – gaining from a potential market upgrade and the licensing of digital asset exchanges.
  • Construction & building materials – supported by accelerated public investment disbursement.
  • Retail & consumer goods – fueled by stronger domestic demand and a recovery in international tourism.
  • Real estate – improving as legal bottlenecks are gradually removed.

Phan Dũng Khánh, Investment Advisory Director at Maybank Investment Bank, told Dân Trí that foreign net selling is temporary, largely due to profit-taking after the market hit new highs. With Vietnam’s open stance toward foreign capital, he expects net buying to return in the medium and long term.

Investment expert Dương Ngọc Dũng added that late August to early September saw a slowdown from profit-taking, with some investors adopting a “sell the news” mindset ahead of the September 2 holiday. However, as the October 7 FTSE announcement approaches, the upgrade story is becoming a stronger market catalyst.

He expects Vietnam to secure the FTSE upgrade, sparking a renewed rally led by financial, securities, and banking stocks. The upgrade, combined with robust macroeconomic fundamentals—economic growth, expanding credit, and rising corporate earnings—would mark a major turning point.

According to VPBankS, the reclassification would provide a new momentum going into the fourth quarter, just as companies begin releasing earnings results. Historically, stocks of firms with strong profit growth tend to rise 15–20 days before announcements, making now a critical time for investors to position their portfolios.

Why Malaysian Property Giants Are Ramping Up Land Acquisitions in Vietnam

Advertisements

Malaysian real estate developers are stepping up efforts to expand their land banks in Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding provinces, as they broaden investment portfolios in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing property markets.

SkyWorld Expands Footprint

Malaysia’s SkyWorld Development recently signed a deal to acquire a 9,400-square-meter land plot in Lai Thieu Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, for 136 million ringgit (over USD 32 million). The company plans to build a 40-story residential tower with more than 1,200 apartments, alongside retail and service facilities.

The site, located near supermarkets, international hospitals, and major industrial zones such as VSIP, Tan Cang, and Song Than, offers strong connectivity and infrastructure, making it attractive to potential residents. The land had previously been listed at VND 900 billion (excluding land-use fees), but earlier negotiations with other developers fell through due to the high asking price.

This marks SkyWorld’s second project in Vietnam. In September 2023, the developer purchased a 5,200-square-meter site in District 8 for a condominium project.

UOA Group Targets Prime Locations

Another Malaysian heavyweight, UOA Group, known for its commercial property developments, is also accelerating its Vietnam expansion. The firm recently spent USD 68 million (VND 1.7 trillion) to acquire a prime 2,000-square-meter site on Vo Thi Sau Street in Tan Dinh Ward, directly opposite Le Van Tam Park. The land is zoned for a 22-story Grade A office tower.

Founded in 1987 with a market capitalization of nearly USD 900 million, UOA already has a strong presence in Vietnam with projects including UOA Tower, Millennial Tower (District 7), The MarQ (District 1), and the Sycamore township in Binh Duong, in partnership with CapitaLand.

Gamuda Land Bets Big

Meanwhile, Gamuda Land, the property arm of Malaysia’s Gamuda Berhad, is doubling down on Vietnam. Chairman Chow Chee Wah said the company has invested over USD 5 billion and plans to inject several more billions in the coming years.

Its Vietnam portfolio includes large-scale developments such as Celadon City, Eaton Park, and Artisan Park (HCMC), Gamuda Gardens (Hanoi), and new land acquisitions in Hai Phong. The company is also exploring land in Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, and Hung Yen.

Gamuda has proposed participation in the long-delayed Binh Quoi–Thanh Da peninsula development, and is studying infrastructure projects such as the metro line linking HCMC to Long Thanh International Airport and various Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects.

Broader Malaysian Involvement

Other Malaysian firms, including Berjaya Land, S P Setia, and Ireka Corp, also maintain stakes in Vietnam’s property market. This push mirrors the broader trend of foreign developers racing to secure the remaining prime plots in the urban cores of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and other key regions.

Investment Climate

According to Vietnam’s Foreign Investment Agency, in the first six months of 2025, newly registered, adjusted, and contributed FDI capital reached USD 21.51 billion, up 32.6% year-on-year. Real estate attracted nearly USD 5.17 billion, making it one of the top sectors. Malaysia and Sweden posted standout increases, with Malaysia climbing 20 spots from the same period last year.

By the end of 2023, Malaysia’s total registered capital in Vietnam exceeded USD 13 billion, ranking it among the top 10 foreign investors. Malaysian firms primarily target real estate, manufacturing, and services.

Compared with other ASEAN peers like Thailand, the Philippines, or Indonesia, Malaysia has executed some of the largest property deals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as industrial investments in Binh Duong and Dong Nai. While disbursement speed trails that of South Korean or Singaporean investors, Malaysia continues to contribute to Vietnam’s diversified FDI landscape.

Vietnam Stocks Slide as VN-Index Drops Nearly 10 Points on Heavy Selling

Advertisements

Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index ended lower on Tuesday after a volatile session, closing down nearly 10 points as strong selling pressure hit key sectors, particularly banking and securities.

Throughout the trading day, the index repeatedly swung between gains and losses within a narrow five-point range. Toward the close, selling pressure intensified, pushing the VN-Index down to 1,671 points, marking its second consecutive session of decline.

The broader market turned sharply negative, with more than 200 stocks falling—nearly double the number of advancers. Large-cap stocks showed a similar pattern, with 19 declining and only 10 gaining.

Key Sector Moves:
  • Banking: Heavyweights led the downturn. BID lost 2.5%, while VPB, CTG, VIB, MBB, and TCB fell between 1.7–2.2%. Only LPB and STB bucked the trend with modest gains.
  • Securities: The entire group was painted red. VIX plunged nearly 4%, VND lost 2.9%, and SSI reversed early gains to close 2.4% lower.
  • Fertilizers: Selling also pressured this group, with DPM down 2.2% and DCM slipping 0.9%.
  • Real Estate: Mixed performance. Mid-caps such as NVL, NLG, and KDH dropped 1.3–2.5%, while smaller-cap names like HQC, QCG, LDG, and SCR surged. The “Vingroup family” of stocks outperformed, helping cushion the index from steeper losses.
Market Liquidity & Foreign Flows:

Liquidity dropped sharply, with trading value down by about VND 9 trillion to VND 32.5 trillion. Steelmaker HPGtopped liquidity with over VND 3.68 trillion in matched orders—more than FPT and SSI combined.

After a session of net buying, foreign investors returned to selling, offloading over VND 3.22 trillion against disbursements of nearly VND 3.1 trillion. VPB was the main target, with around 3 million shares sold, followed by SSI, DXG, and VND.

Brokerage firms noted that while the VN-Index declined, the short-term outlook remains cautious rather than outright negative. Analysts expect the market to continue consolidating ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision and the upcoming ETF portfolio rebalancing. A clearer trend is likely to emerge only if the index breaks above 1,690 points or falls below 1,650 points.

Police Rescue Two Chinese Nationals Kidnapped by Compatriots Over Gambling Debt

Advertisements

Da Nang police have rescued two Chinese men who were allegedly kidnapped, assaulted, and detained by fellow Chinese nationals after failing to repay large gambling debts incurred at a central Vietnam casino.

On September 17, the Da Nang Criminal Police Department confirmed that officers had freed Wang Xiaoci and Li Yao Zong, both Chinese citizens, who were being held at an apartment in the Hoi An D’or complex, Hoi An City.

Authorities detained Jin Jun (46, Chinese national) along with four Vietnamese accomplices from Thanh Hoa and Quang Tri provinces. They are under investigation for unlawful detention.

The case began on September 12, when a Chinese man reported to police that his friend, Wang Xiaoci, had been forcibly taken away from Hoiana Casino in Quang Nam after losing heavily at gambling and falling into debt.

Police quickly identified a suspicious vehicle and traced it to the Hoi An D’or residence, where both victims were being held. Dozens of officers staged a raid, rescuing the men and apprehending the suspects.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had borrowed hundreds of thousands of yuan to gamble. Unable to repay, they were coerced into signing debt acknowledgments, beaten, and forced to call their families to transfer money.

Mr. Wang reportedly lost a tooth from the assaults, while Mr. Li was threatened with punitive interest charges of 20,000 yuan per day if the debt was not settled on time.

The case remains under investigation.

Vietnam Plans Up to 30 Years of Tax Incentives for International Financial Center

Advertisements

(Vietnam Insider) – Businesses and high-skilled professionals operating in Vietnam’s planned International Financial Center (IFC) could enjoy generous tax breaks of up to 30 years, according to a draft decree by the Ministry of Finance now open for public consultation.

Licensing Conditions for Securities Firms

The draft decree proposes that domestic securities companies must have a minimum charter capital and equity of VND 5,000 billion (~USD 190 million) to qualify for licenses to operate within the IFC. Foreign investors would need to meet the same capital threshold, equivalent to about USD 190 million.

In addition to capital requirements, both domestic and foreign firms must demonstrate at least two consecutive years of profitability, no accumulated losses, and a minimum charter capital of VND 800 billion (~USD 32 million) for newly established entities within the IFC. Each licensed unit must also employ a general director and at least 10 staff members holding securities practice licenses.

Permitted activities would include brokerage, investment advisory, proprietary trading, underwriting, and fund management. However, these firms would be restricted from providing financial services or products to clients outside the IFC’s administrative boundaries.

Corporate and Personal Tax Incentives

For priority sectors, corporate income tax (CIT) would be set at 10% for up to 30 years, with exemptions of up to 4 years and a 50% reduction for up to 9 subsequent years. For non-priority projects, CIT would be 15% for 15 years, with up to 2 years of exemptions and a 50% reduction for up to 4 years thereafter.

On the personal income tax (PIT) side, managers, experts, scientists, and high-skilled workers — both Vietnamese and foreign — employed at the IFC will be exempt from PIT on income from wages and salaries until the end of 2030. The exemption will be calculated continuously from the month the income arises, with any partial month counted as a full month.

In cases where an individual sells a wholly owned business involving capital transfer linked to real estate, PIT will be declared and paid under existing real estate transfer tax rules.

The draft clarifies that any corporate or personal income taxes not specifically covered by the decree will continue to follow Vietnam’s current tax laws and regulations.

VN-Index Stumbles Before 1,700-Point Mark

Advertisements

(Vietnam Insider) – Vietnam’s stock market pulled back on September 16 after a strong run, with the VN-Index falling short of the symbolic 1,700-point milestone.

After five consecutive sessions of gains, the market opened the day in high spirits. Early buying momentum pushed the VN-Index up by more than 10 points in the morning, fueling investor optimism. But in the afternoon session, selling pressure mounted, reversing the trend. By the close, the VN-Index had slipped 4 points, or 0.24%, to 1,680.9 points. The VN30-Index dipped 1.36 points, while the HNX-Index rose 1.71 points and UPCoM-Index added 0.86 points.

The main drag came from the Vingroup family of stocks, particularly VIC and VHM, along with losses in HPG, MSN, VJC, BSR, and VCB. On the upside, gains in MBB, CTG, HVN, VNM, FPT, TCB, and SHB provided support, preventing a sharper market decline.

One standout was KLB (KienlongBank), which surged nearly 15% with unusually high trading volume after news it is preparing for a listing on the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange (HoSE).

Market liquidity remained robust, with trading value exceeding VND 44.4 trillion (~USD 1.75 billion). The session saw 114 advancing stocks, including 13 hitting their daily ceiling, while 54 closed flat and 210 declined.

The pullback came just a day after Vietnam’s Finance Minister Nguyễn Văn Thắng, during a meeting with the London Stock Exchange (LSE) on September 15, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading Vietnam’s stock market. The government has recently approved a plan to raise the market’s status from frontier to secondary emerging market under FTSE Russell by 2025.

As of the end of August, Vietnam’s equity market capitalization stood at nearly USD 352 billion, equivalent to 79.5% of estimated 2024 GDP. Liquidity has also improved significantly, with some sessions exceeding USD 3 billion in turnover. Since the beginning of the year, the average daily trading value has surpassed USD 1.1 billion, ranking Vietnam among the most active markets in ASEAN.

What’s New in iOS 26: Apple’s Biggest iPhone Update Yet

Advertisements

(Vietnam Insider) – In the early hours of September 16, Apple officially released iOS 26, calling it one of the most significant software upgrades in the iPhone’s history. The update introduces sweeping changes to both design and functionality, setting the stage for the next era of iOS.

Liquid Glass Design Language

For the first time, Apple has rolled out a unified design language across its platforms called Liquid Glass, inspired by the look and feel of visionOS. The system interface and app icons now feature a transparent, glass-like aesthetic with refreshed visuals for core apps such as Camera, Photos, Safari, Phone, and FaceTime. Both the Lock Screen and Home Screen gain new customization options.

“This is the biggest design update we’ve ever delivered,” said Alan Dye, Apple’s Vice President of Human Interface Design. “Liquid Glass brings glass-like elements across the entire iOS interface, from the dock to the lock screen, and will guide our design direction for years to come.”

AI Enhancements and Smarter Apps

Alongside the visual overhaul, iOS 26 upgrades many built-in apps. The Camera app sports a cleaner, more intuitive interface, while the Phone app adds call screening to help manage incoming calls when users are busy. Messages now supports custom chat backgrounds and in-app polls.

Apple has also expanded Apple Intelligence, its AI suite, across more areas. Users can translate conversations in real time through Live Translation, available in Messages, Phone calls, and FaceTime. The Genmoji feature lets users merge two emojis to create new ones, going beyond simple text prompts.

Other Apple services, including Music, Maps, and Wallet, also receive significant refinements designed to make everyday use smoother and smarter.

Gaming and Visual Intelligence

iOS 26 debuts a dedicated Games app, giving users centralized access to their App Store game library. A “Play Together” tab highlights what friends are playing and includes leaderboards for friendly challenges.

Another major feature, Visual Intelligence, leverages AI to understand what’s on the iPhone screen. For example, a screenshot of a jacket on social media can be used to search for shopping links, while a screenshot of an event can be converted directly into a Calendar entry.

Availability and Supported Devices

Apple confirmed iOS 26 will ship with the new iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models this fall, likely coinciding with the iPhone 17 launch in September. The update will also be available for older devices, including the iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 series, and the iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).

To update, users can go to Settings → General → Software Update on their iPhone.

U.S. Senate Confirms Trump Nominee Stephen Miran as New Fed Governor

Advertisements

(Vietnam Insider) – The U.S. Senate has confirmed Stephen Miran as a member of the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors, filling the vacancy left by Adriana Kugler, who abruptly resigned last month. The approval came during a Senate session on September 15.

Miran, currently serving as Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, will take an unpaid leave from that role while serving at the Fed. His confirmation process took less than six weeks — unusually fast compared to the months-long process typical for such appointments.

The Fed’s Board of Governors, composed of seven members, is the central body responsible for setting U.S. monetary policy, supervising banks, and safeguarding financial stability. Former President Donald Trump nominated Miran in August, shortly after Kugler’s resignation.

Policy Implications Ahead of Fed Meeting

The next Federal Reserve meeting is scheduled for September 16–17, with markets almost certain the central bank will cut interest rates by 0.25 percentage points amid signs of a weakening labor market.

However, analysts suggest Miran may dissent, pushing for a larger cut in line with Trump’s repeated calls for aggressive rate reductions of several percentage points.

Miran has also been a vocal supporter of Trump’s trade policies, particularly import tariffs, arguing they do not fuel inflation.

Rising Internal Dissent at the Fed

This year, the Fed has yet to adjust rates, but two Trump-appointed governors — Michelle Bowman and Christopher Waller — have consistently supported cuts. In July, both voted against holding rates steady, marking the first time in over three decades that multiple Fed governors dissented.

With Miran’s arrival, analysts expect the bloc of dissenters to grow. If Bowman, Waller, and Miran all push for a 50 basis-point cut instead of the widely expected 25, it would be the first time since 1988 that three Fed governors simultaneously oppose the board’s consensus decision.

Low Pressure Over the East Sea Brings Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Across Vietnam

Advertisements

(Vietnam Insider) – A low-pressure system over the East Sea is expected to move northwest at about 10 km per hour in the next 24 hours and could intensify into a tropical depression, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

On the morning of September 16, the system was active in the central East Sea. Forecasters warn it may strengthen, bringing heavy showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds up to level 5–6 (gusting to level 8). Waves are predicted to reach 2–3 meters, making seas rough. Authorities advise vessels operating in the area to take precautions and ensure safety.

Rainfall Forecast by Region

  • Northern Vietnam (Sept 17–25): Scattered showers and thunderstorms. The Northeast is likely to see more widespread rain and storms from September 18–21, particularly at night and in the early morning.
  • Thanh Hoa to Hue: Some rain and storms are expected. From southern Quang Tri to Hue, scattered rain and thunderstorms are forecast around September 19, with localized heavy downpours.
  • South Central Coast: Scattered evening and nighttime thunderstorms, with isolated heavy rain.
  • Central Highlands & Southern Vietnam: Afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms are likely, with localized heavy rainfall. Rainfall is expected to gradually ease from around September 20.

Meteorologists project that in September, 1–2 tropical storms or depressions may form in the East Sea, potentially affecting Vietnam. From October to December, the number of storms and tropical depressions in the East Sea — and their impact on Vietnam — is forecast to be higher than the long-term average of 4–5 storms, with nearly 2 making landfall.

Vietnam Finance Minister Meets FTSE Russell Leaders in London to Discuss Stock Market Upgrade

Advertisements

London — On the morning of September 15 (local time), Vietnam’s Minister of Finance Nguyễn Văn Thắng and a delegation from the Ministry of Finance met with the London Stock Exchange (LSE) to strengthen cooperation and discuss Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its stock market status.

During the meeting, Minister Thắng praised the collaboration between LSE, FTSE Russell, and the State Securities Commission of Vietnam (SSC), and provided updates on Vietnam’s economic performance and capital market development. He also noted that SSC Chairwoman Vũ Thị Chân Phương would hold a separate working session with FTSE Russell to directly address criteria for Vietnam’s market reclassification.

The Ministry of Finance will also host an Investment Promotion Conference in London on September 16, aimed at giving global investors a comprehensive view of Vietnam’s financial markets.

Minister Thắng reported that by the end of August 2025, Vietnam’s stock market capitalization had reached nearly USD 352 billion, equivalent to 79.5% of estimated 2024 GDP. Market liquidity has improved significantly, with several sessions recording over USD 3 billion in trading value. On average, daily trading since the beginning of the year has exceeded USD 1.1 billion, placing Vietnam among the most active markets in ASEAN.

LSE CEO Julia Hoggett highlighted ongoing initiatives to support Vietnam’s market upgrade, including:

  • Collaboration between FTSE Russell and SSC to address outstanding barriers.
  • An MoU on index development cooperation between Vietnam Exchange (VNX) and FTSE Russell.

Minister Thắng emphasized that the Vietnamese government has introduced strong reforms and immediate policy measures to create favorable conditions for foreign capital inflows. He proposed further cooperation with LSE in areas such as legal framework development, market supervision, international governance standards, ESG adoption, and diversification of products like green bonds, sustainable bonds, and derivatives.

For its part, LSE expressed strong confidence in Vietnam’s market outlook. Julia Hoggett affirmed that LSE would continue to support Vietnam’s upgrade to emerging market status, positioning London as a “gateway” for Vietnam to connect with global investors.

At the meeting, witnessed by Minister Thắng, Ambassador Đỗ Minh Hùng, SSC Chairwoman Vũ Thị Chân Phương, and LSE CEO Julia Hoggett, the Vietnam Stock Exchange (VNX) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FTSE International Limited. The agreement establishes a strategic partnership to strengthen Vietnam’s capital market infrastructure and accelerate global integration.

Phu Tho Police Prosecute Three Young Men for Random Street Knife Attacks

Advertisements

Phú Thọ Province, Vietnam – Authorities in Phú Thọ have officially charged three young men who roamed city streets armed with large knives, attacking random passersby in a shocking display of violence.

The Phú Thọ Police Investigation Agency announced on September 15 that suspects Đường Tuấn Linh (22), Nguyễn Anh Tuấn (17), and Bùi Đức Khoa (21), all residents of Thịnh Minh commune, face prosecution for intentional injury.

Random Attacks to “Show Off”

Investigators revealed that in the early hours of September 5, the trio drove a Suzuki motorbike (plate 70L1-693.44) through several streets, carrying a 60 cm-long homemade knife. Their stated purpose: to attack whoever they encountered as a way to “show off.”

At around 3:40 a.m., they chased down victim B.V.C., forcing him off the road in Kỳ Sơn Ward. Suspect Nguyễn Anh Tuấn then slashed the victim multiple times on his helmet and once on his head.

Minutes later, on the road through Thịnh Minh commune, the group encountered another victim, B.V.A., who was struck in the head before the attackers fled toward Hanoi.

After the assaults, the group reportedly returned home and slept “as if nothing had happened.”

Victims Hospitalized, Police Respond

Both victims were taken to Hòa Bình General Hospital for emergency treatment.

Following citizens’ reports, Kỳ Sơn Police quickly deployed forces, identified the attackers, and took them into custody.

Authorities Condemn “Reckless and Brutal” Acts

Police described the behavior as reckless, violent, and unprovoked, showing blatant disregard for the law and sparking widespread public outrage.

Officials also urged parents to pay closer attention to their children, warning of the risks of youth gangs and street violence. They called on residents to immediately report any groups of teenagers carrying weapons or displaying aggressive behavior to prevent further incidents.

Exit mobile version