A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread panic and structural damage, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake buckled roads in the capital Naypyidaw and sent tremors as far as China and Thailand.
The USGS reported the epicenter was located 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of the city of Sagaing, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The quake struck at approximately 12:50 p.m. local time (0620 GMT).
In Naypyidaw, AFP journalists reported severe ground shaking that caused roads to buckle and ceiling fragments to fall from buildings. In neighboring Thailand, metro and light rail services in Bangkok were temporarily suspended as a precaution.
The quake was widely felt in northern Thailand, including the popular tourist city of Chiang Mai. “I heard it and I was sleeping in the house. I ran as far as I could in my pajamas out of the building,” said Duangjai, a resident of Chiang Mai, speaking to AFP.
In Bangkok, residents and tourists fled buildings in panic. Eyewitnesses described seeing hotel guests rushing out in bathrobes and swimwear as structures swayed.
Social media footage from Mandalay showed collapsed buildings and debris-strewn streets, though these reports have yet to be independently verified. In Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, residents also evacuated buildings in fear.
China’s earthquake monitoring agency reported tremors in the southwestern province of Yunnan, estimating the quake at a magnitude of 7.9.
Myanmar lies in a seismically active region. According to the USGS, six major earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or higher occurred between 1930 and 1956 along the Sagaing Fault, which runs north to south through the country.
In 2016, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the ancient city of Bagan, killing three people and damaging several historic temples.
The quake adds further pressure to Myanmar’s already fragile healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, where access to emergency medical services remains limited.
Ho Chi Minh City, March 28 – A group of 12 leading UK companies specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data is exploring collaboration opportunities in Vietnam, as part of the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week 2025.
Held in Ho Chi Minh City from March 27–28, this flagship event aims to foster digital innovation and build stronger tech partnerships between the UK and Southeast Asia. The initiative reflects the UK’s growing interest in Vietnam’s fast-emerging digital economy.
In a major development on the sidelines of the event, the UK Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Centre signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.
The newly signed MoU sets the stage for deeper collaboration between UK and Vietnamese stakeholders—including government agencies, research institutions, universities, and private sector players—to accelerate digital transformation and tech innovation in Vietnam’s southern economic hub.
The partnership will focus on both fundamental and applied research across a wide range of key sectors, including smart city solutions, FinTech, AI, robotics, automation, nanotechnology, cybersecurity, and HealthTech.
As Vietnam continues to position itself as a regional leader in digital transformation, this UK-Vietnam collaboration could unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic tech markets.
FWD Group has officially appointed Mr. Phuong Tien Minh as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FWD Vietnam Life Insurance Company Limited (FWD Vietnam), effective March 27, 2025.
Mr. Minh brings with him decades of experience in the banking and insurance sectors. Prior to joining FWD Vietnam, he served as CEO of Prudential Vietnam. He also spent 12 years in commercial and retail banking at HSBC Vietnam and Vietnam International Bank (VIB).
On the same day, the Ministry of Finance approved Mr. Minh’s appointment as CEO of FWD Vietnam, succeeding Mr. Anantharaman Sridharan.
This marks the second leadership transition at FWD Vietnam in less than two years. Mr. Sridharan had taken over the role from Mr. Huynh Huu Khang on August 1, 2023.
Operating in Vietnam since 2016, FWD Vietnam is currently the exclusive bancassurance partner of Vietcombank. In 2024, FWD Group also launched a regional Technology Center in Ho Chi Minh City to support its digital operations across Asia.
Despite reporting a strong post-tax profit of VND 290 billion in the first half of 2024—a 70% year-on-year increase—FWD Vietnam still carries an accumulated loss of over VND 5,800 billion as of June 30, 2024. The company’s total assets exceed VND 20,400 billion, with the majority allocated to financial investments.
FWD Vietnam’s investment portfolio is heavily weighted toward bank deposits and government bonds, alongside corporate bonds from major firms such as Taseco Real Estate Investment JSC and Taseco Group JSC. Its equity holdings include shares of prominent listed companies like MWG, VIC, IJC, MML, CTD, MBB, and STB.
In a proud moment for Vietnam, TIME Magazine has named Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line 1 as one of the World’s 100 Greatest Places to Visit in 2025—the only Vietnamese destination to make the prestigious list.
The recognition places HCMC alongside some of the world’s most exciting travel hotspots, from Japan’s newly opened Nintendo Museum to futuristic libraries in Beijing and ski resorts in Shanghai. It’s a testament to Vietnam’s rapid urban transformation and growing appeal to global travelers.
A New Icon for a Dynamic City
According to TIME, the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line is “a great achievement” for Vietnam’s southern metropolis, highlighting how the city is reinventing itself for the future. Stretching 19.7 kilometers with 14 stations, the line connects the vibrant heart of HCMC with the growing innovation hub of Thu Duc City.
This sleek, modern metro makes it easier than ever for locals and tourists to explore iconic spots like Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the Municipal Theatre, all while avoiding the city’s infamous traffic.
More Than Just Transportation
Beyond convenience, Metro Line 1 represents a shift toward sustainable urban living. TIME praises the project for easing congestion and reducing pollution, while enhancing the overall quality of life for millions of residents and visitors alike.
For tourists, it’s more than a way to get around—it’s a new way to experience Ho Chi Minh City. Smooth, clean, and efficient, the metro offers a fresh lens through which to explore one of Asia’s most energetic cities.
Photo: Olivier Ochanine
Vietnam on the Global Map
This is the seventh year that TIME Magazine has published its highly anticipated list, curated based on criteria such as Relevance, Innovation, Impact, and Success. HCMC’s inclusion not only signals global recognition of the city’s efforts to modernize, but also positions Vietnam as a forward-thinking destination in the eyes of international travelers.
With infrastructure like Metro Line 1 leading the way, Ho Chi Minh City is shaping up to be not just Vietnam’s economic powerhouse—but also a modern, accessible, and unforgettable stop on any world traveler’s itinerary.
Vietnam is fast becoming one of Asia’s most exciting travel destinations, with Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Hanoi leading the way.
In the first quarter of the year, HCMC welcomed more than 8.57 million domestic travelers, reflecting a strong 6.3% year-on-year increase, and generating an impressive VND56.66 trillion (US$2.21 billion) in tourism revenue—a 26.7% jump from the previous year.
To further enrich the visitor experience, HCMC’s Department of Tourism has collaborated with local authorities and businesses to develop unique inter-district travel experiences. These efforts highlight the city’s cultural diversity, vibrant street life, and dynamic mix of tradition and modernity.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – 2025), HCMC has launched a fresh tourism identity campaign under the message “Find Your Vibes.” This campaign features 50 stunning graphic visuals that showcase the city’s iconic landmarks and lively neighborhoods, inspiring travelers to uncover their own perfect moments in the city.
Meanwhile, the capital city of Hanoi attracted 7.3 million visitors and earned nearly VND29.93 trillion (US$1.17 billion) in tourism revenue in just the first three months of the year. From its centuries-old temples and French colonial architecture to modern cafes and bustling markets, Hanoi continues to captivate tourists from around the world.
Adding to the appeal, both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have been named among Southeast Asia’s safest cities, according to data from statistics site Numbeo—a reassuring highlight for travelers seeking a secure and welcoming destination.
Whether you’re in search of culinary adventures, cultural heritage, or urban exploration, Vietnam is ready to welcome you with open arms. Start planning your journey today and find your vibes in Vietnam!
Apple has officially announced that its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025) will take place from June 9 to June 13 at the Apple Park campus in California.
The event, open to developers worldwide, will spotlight Apple’s latest software innovations and provide exclusive access to new tools, technologies, and programs.
In its announcement, Apple emphasized its commitment to the developer community. “WWDC 2025 will give developers access to our latest tools and features as part of our ongoing support for innovation,” the company stated.
Susan Prescott, Apple’s Vice President of Worldwide Developer Relations, shared:
“We’re thrilled to kick off another exciting WWDC with our global developer community. We look forward to unveiling new tools and technologies that will help them continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
At the heart of WWDC 2025 will be the unveiling of Apple’s next-generation operating systems, including iOS 19, iPadOS 19, visionOS 3, tvOS 19, macOS 16, and watchOS 12, according to reports from 9to5Mac.
Among these, iOS 19 is expected to be one of the most significant updates in Apple’s history. Leaks suggest that the new version will adopt a design language closely aligned with visionOS, featuring colorful, layered interface elements and redesigned system apps. The Camera app, for instance, is rumored to receive a complete visual overhaul with a control system inspired by visionOS.
Recent releases like Apple Sports and Apple Invites already hint at this evolving design direction, showcasing interfaces with vibrant colors and layered elements reminiscent of both visionOS and watchOS.
In addition to visual updates, iOS 19 is set to introduce groundbreaking features, particularly in artificial intelligence. According to Bloomberg, Apple is developing a major upgrade to Siri, powered by a large language model (LLM). Internally dubbed “LLM Siri,” the new assistant is being tested as a standalone app and is expected to debut in iOS 19 and macOS 16. However, the full rollout may not happen until spring 2026.
macOS 16 and iPadOS 19 are also anticipated to receive significant design improvements, with Apple working to unify the visual and user experience across all its platforms for a more seamless ecosystem.
With WWDC 2025 just months away, anticipation is building for what could be a landmark year in Apple’s software evolution. Stay tuned for more updates as June approaches.
The pet industry is evolving rapidly due to changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and a greater focus on sustainability. According to EuroMonitor, in 2024, the pet product market reached a total value of 55.17 billion USD, reflecting the growing demand for pet-related goods and services. Some of the best-selling products include cat litter, valued at 10.85 billion USD, and pet healthcare, reaching 10.91 billion USD. Leading companies in the industry such as Nestlé SA, Elanco Animal Health Inc, and Central Garden & Pet Co continue to dominate the market, thanks to their strong reputation and consistent product quality.
The Pet Industry in Vietnam
Vietnam’s pet industry is expanding rapidly, driven by increased pet ownership, changing consumer attitudes, and a growing variety of product options. According to a report from EuroMonitor, in 2024, retail sales of pet products in Vietnam increased by 8%, reaching VND 406 billion. The fastest-growing segment was pet healthcare, which grew by 11% to VND 76.6 billion, as pet owners became more aware of pet health and wellness, investing in flea and tick treatments, dietary supplements, and other preventive care products.
Despite its strong growth potential, the Vietnamese pet market is highly fragmented, with many brands competing in different categories. Hoang Anh Co Ltd is the largest player, holding 11% of the market share, while international brands such as Catsan (Mars Inc.) lead in cat litter, and Merial (Boehringer Ingelheim Vietnam LLC) is a major player in pet healthcare.
Although Vietnam’s pet industry presents great opportunities, economic instability can impact spending on non-essential pet products. Many consumers are price-sensitive and may opt for lower-cost alternatives or switch brands when necessary. However, the expansion of distribution channels, including online marketplaces, pet superstores, and veterinary clinics, is expected to drive further industry growth. As Vietnam’s urban population expands and incomes rise, demand for premium and specialized pet products is set to increase, positioning the country as a key emerging market in the global pet industry.
To further explore the advantages of establishing a manufacturing hub in Vietnam as well as some other countries, watch the video below, where we delve into the specific benefits businesses can achieve in each location.
Sourcing Strategies and Market Expansion
As the pet industry grows, sourcing strategies are becoming increasingly important. Asian countries, particularly Vietnam, China, Thailand, and Cambodia, are key manufacturing hubs for pet products, each offering unique advantages and challenges.
China remains the largest supplier of pet products, with a well-established manufacturing network producing everything from pet food to smart pet gadgets. However, given the renewed trade tensions, including tariffs, under the second Trump administration, businesses are exploring alternative manufacturing locations. Therefore, countries in Southeast Asia among others are attracting increased interest as potential manufacturing hubs.
Vietnam has gained attention as a reliable sourcing destination, particularly for eco-friendly materials like bamboo, coconut fibers, and sustainable textiles. The country’s skilled workforce and improving production infrastructure make it a competitive alternative to China.
Thailand is a leading exporter of pet food, specializing in high-quality, grain-free, and organic pet food. The country’s strong seafood and poultry industry provides an advantage in pet nutrition.
Cambodia is an emerging player in pet product manufacturing, particularly for affordable, handcrafted pet accessories. Its growing textile and leather industries provide opportunities for unique and artisanal pet products, although infrastructure and supply chain stability remain areas for improvement.
Innovation and Strategic Actions for Best Businesses
The pet industry continues to evolve with health, sustainability, and technology as the main drivers of innovation. Smart pet gadgets, such as AI-powered pet cameras, automated feeders, and GPS trackers, are reshaping pet care. Meanwhile, biodegradable toys, organic bedding, and recyclable packaging are becoming industry standards as sustainability gains importance.
To stay competitive, businesses must take strategic actions to align with these trends. Investing in research and development will help create innovative health-focused products and smart pet technology. Companies should prioritize sustainability by integrating eco-friendly materials, reducing plastic waste, and adopting energy-efficient production methods. Expanding distribution channels, including e-commerce, direct-to-consumer subscription models, and pet specialty stores, will ensure wider reach and customer engagement.
Compliance with stricter regulations on pet food safety and transparency in ingredient sourcing is essential to maintaining consumer trust. Additionally, leveraging AI-driven customer insights will enable businesses to offer personalized pet care solutions, such as custom nutrition plans and breed-specific grooming products. Companies that focus on innovation, sustainability, and personalized solutions will gain a competitive edge in the evolving pet industry.
A major trend shaping the pet industry is the increasing humanization of pets. More people consider their pets as family members, leading to greater demand for high-quality pet food, healthcare products, and luxury accessories. Pet owners are now looking for nutritious food, premium grooming products, and smart pet accessories. The demand for pet insurance, training services, and pet-friendly travel options is also rising. In response, businesses are introducing more personalized and health-focused products to meet the needs of modern pet owners.
This shift in pet ownership behavior has also influenced sourcing strategies and product innovation, as businesses aim to meet the increasing expectations of consumers who want safe, high-quality, and sustainable products for their pets.
Final Thoughts
The pet industry is entering a new era of growth, shaped by changing consumer behavior, sustainability initiatives, and technological progress. As pet owners seek high-quality, responsibly sourced, and innovative products, manufacturers and suppliers must adapt by expanding sourcing options, using sustainable materials, and incorporating smart pet technology. Looking ahead, companies that embrace transparency, regulatory compliance, and sustainable business practices will play a leading role in shaping the future of the pet industry.
After years perched atop Twitter’s San Francisco headquarters, the famous blue bird logo—known affectionately as “Larry”—has officially flown the coop.
Sold at auction for $34,375, the massive logo, once a symbol of the platform’s golden era, fetched less than its $40,000 estimate but still stirred up plenty of buzz.
Weighing in at a hefty 254 kilograms and measuring 3.6 by 2.7 meters, “Larry” wasn’t just any logo—it was a cultural icon. Named after basketball legend Larry Bird, the blue mascot was front and center during Twitter’s meteoric rise in the world of social media.
But times have changed.
Ever since Elon Musk’s dramatic $44 billion takeover in late 2022, Twitter has undergone a radical transformation—starting with a name change to “X”. Musk didn’t stop there: massive layoffs, policy overhauls, and the dismantling of Twitter’s brand identity followed. Even the company’s office décor was put under the hammer.
In fact, this isn’t the first Twitter fire sale. Back in January 2023, everything from espresso machines to quirky memorabilia was auctioned off. It was clear: the old Twitter was being swept away to make room for Musk’s vision.
This latest auction by RR Auction included more than just Larry. A vintage Apple-1 computer went for a staggering $375,000, and a 1976 Apple check signed by Steve Jobs pulled in over $112,000—reminding us that tech history still holds strong appeal for collectors.
For many, watching “Larry” take flight to a new home is bittersweet. While the blue bird may no longer soar over Silicon Valley, it continues to symbolize a time when Twitter was the digital town square of the world—a simpler, chirpier era now fading into tech nostalgia.
Great news for foreign investors eyeing Vietnam! Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s economic powerhouse, is rolling out the red carpet by slashing at least 30% of administrative procedures for businesses.
This bold move, spearheaded by Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, signals a game-changing shift to make doing business easier, faster, and more cost-effective.
Chairman Duoc has directed city departments to streamline regulations that have long frustrated businesses, targeting a 30% reduction in processing times and the elimination of unnecessary hurdles. This isn’t just talk—each unit is tasked with delivering concrete proposals to simplify procedures under the city’s control or escalate recommendations to national ministries. The goal? Slash business costs by at least 30% and turbocharge the investment climate.
This initiative aligns with a recent directive from Vietnam’s Prime Minister to boost the business environment and drive socio-economic growth, with a special focus on empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—a vital engine for innovation and jobs. For foreign investors, this means fewer headaches and more opportunities to tap into a market brimming with potential.
Why This Matters to You
Ho Chi Minh City is home to over 500,000 enterprises, making it a bustling hub for trade and investment. In January alone, foreign investment hit $150 million—a 20.2% jump from last year. While new business registrations dipped in early 2025 (3,900 new firms with VND 29,600 billion in capital, down 37.6% in licenses and 47.9% in capital from 2024), the city’s aggressive reforms are set to reverse that trend and ignite fresh growth.
Imagine this: faster approvals, less paperwork, and a government committed to cutting the red tape that slows down profits. Chairman Duoc has made it clear—departments must act decisively, eliminate delays, and stamp out harassment to rebuild trust with investors like you.
Expert Insight: Sophie Dao Weighs In
Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS, a leading investment consulting firm for foreign investors in Vietnam, hailed the move as a “landmark step forward.” “This 30% reduction in procedures is a clear signal that Ho Chi Minh City is serious about becoming a global investment magnet,” she said. “For our clients, this translates to faster market entry, lower operational costs, and a smoother path to profitability. It’s an exciting time to invest in Vietnam, and the city is raising the bar for efficiency and transparency.”
Dao added, “The focus on SMEs is particularly encouraging. These businesses often drive innovation, and with less bureaucracy, foreign investors can partner with or establish agile ventures here with confidence. Ho Chi Minh City is proving it’s not just open for business—it’s optimizing for success.”
Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS
Tech-Powered Efficiency
At a recent dialogue with Korean businesses on March 25, Deputy Director of the Department of Finance, Do Dang Ai, unveiled plans to supercharge reforms with technology. The city is pushing for 95% of administrative procedures to go online, leveraging “one-stop” and “one-stop-shop” systems to save you time and hassle. Plus, upgrades to the national business registration system are in the works to shrink processing times even further.
Need help getting started? The Department of Finance is launching a support program via its Business Information Portal, guiding investors through investment registration and capital contribution processes—whether you’re launching a new project or buying shares.
Vietnam’s Economic Star on the Rise
Ho Chi Minh City isn’t just resting on its laurels. It’s gunning to climb into the top 15 nationwide for its Administrative Reform Index (PAR Index) in 2025 and boost its Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI). For foreign investors, this translates to a more transparent, efficient, and welcoming market.
With its strategic location, growing consumer base, and now a turbocharged business-friendly environment, Ho Chi Minh City is positioning itself as the destination for your next big investment. “Vietnam’s potential has always been immense,” Sophie Dao noted, “and with these reforms, Ho Chi Minh City is turning that potential into action. Investors should take notice—this is a golden window of opportunity.”
Ready to seize it? Vietnam’s economic locomotive is firing on all cylinders—don’t miss the ride!
Buckle up, Vietnam Insider readers – the electric vehicle scene just took a wild turn! Aion, the Chinese car brand that zoomed into Vietnam with big promises, has closed its sole showroom in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 7 after a mere three months of operation.
Launched in October 2024 with sleek electric models like the ES and Y Plus, Aion’s departure has left car enthusiasts buzzing with questions. Was this a misstep in the EV race, or a clever pit stop for something bigger? Let’s dive into the drama!
From Aion to BYD: A Swift Handover
In a surprising twist, Harmony Vietnam – the distributor behind Aion – handed over the dealership to fellow Chinese giant BYD in March 2025. The showroom on Huynh Tan Phat Street, once proudly waving the Aion flag, has now been transformed into a BYD hub. But don’t worry, Aion fans – the company insists this isn’t the end of the road. “We’re relocating to a new spot that’ll boost our brand and connect us with more customers,” a Harmony Vietnam spokesperson told reporter. New dealerships are apparently in the works, though no timeline has been spilled yet. Stay tuned!
Customers Left Hanging – No Cars, Just Refunds
Here’s where it gets juicy: Aion’s grand entrance last October came with a splashy reveal of its first customers. The plan? Deliver cars right after Tet 2025. But fast forward to today, and not a single Aion has rolled into an individual customer’s garage. Sources say a sudden shift in strategy derailed the deliveries, forcing Harmony Vietnam to negotiate deposit refunds. Talk about a bumpy ride for those early adopters who thought they’d be cruising in style by now!
What Happens to Aion Owners (If There Were Any)?
With the showroom gone, Aion assures customers that warranties, maintenance, repairs, and genuine spare parts won’t be left in the dust. Harmony Vietnam promises to uphold Aion’s standards, even as they hunt for new partners to launch dealerships in both the North and South. So, if you were dreaming of zipping around in an Aion ES or Y Plus, there’s still hope – just don’t hold your breath for a specific date.
Aion’s Bold Start: Affordable EVs with Big Range
Let’s rewind to Aion’s debut. The ES, a D-segment sedan priced at a C-segment-friendly VND 788 million, turned heads with its 134-horsepower motor and 442 km range. Meanwhile, the Y Plus – a crossover-MPV mashup at VND 888 million – boasted 204 horsepower and a 490 km range. Both models, powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries, screamed affordability and innovation. Charging? A standard 7 kW charger took 8 hours for a full juice-up, but the District 7 showroom (while it lasted) offered a 120 kW fast charger – 30-80% in just 35 minutes. Too bad it’s all a memory now!
Charging Woes and a Bigger Picture
Unlike some EV brands, Aion didn’t build its own charging network, opting instead to team up with third-party providers. That might’ve been a hurdle in a market where charging stations are still playing catch-up. Meanwhile, Aion’s parent company, GAC (a state-owned Chinese titan), keeps chugging along in Vietnam with gas-powered models via Tanchong – a totally separate operation from Harmony Vietnam’s electric dreams.
What’s Next for Aion – and Vietnam’s EV Craze?
So, what’s the deal? Is Aion hitting the brakes or just shifting gears? The company swears it’s not quitting Vietnam, but with BYD taking over the showroom and no clear roadmap for a comeback, readers can’t help but wonder: will Aion recharge its strategy and make a triumphant return, or has it lost its spark? One thing’s for sure – Vietnam’s electric vehicle market is heating up, and we’re all along for the ride.
Gold may be stealing headlines with 15 record-breaking intraday highs this year — but silver is quietly making a powerful comeback, and savvy investors are starting to pay attention.
“Silver is a hidden gem,” says Peter Spina, founder of GoldSeek.com and SilverSeek.com. “It’s an under-the-radar opportunity to ride the gold-and-silver bull market.”
While gold recently surged past the $3,000 per ounce mark for the first time ever, silver is still trading at a relative bargain — around $33.49 an ounce last week. That’s far below its 1980 peak of $48.70 (which would be nearly $200 today when adjusted for inflation).
But here’s what makes it especially compelling now: silver is outpacing gold in 2025. It’s up 14.5% year-to-date, slightly ahead of gold’s 14.4% gain. And with its historical tendency to lag gold in the early stages of a rally, some experts believe silver could be poised for a dramatic breakout.
The Gold-Silver Ratio Is Flashing a Buy Signal
One major indicator in silver’s favor? The gold-silver ratio — currently hovering above 90 ounces of silver for every ounce of gold. That’s significantly higher than the long-term average of 70, signaling that silver may be seriously undervalued.
“Silver often waits until the market gets excited — then it takes off, sometimes faster than gold,” Spina explains. “That moment may be right around the corner.”
Even Warren Buffett Bet Big on Silver
While Buffett famously criticizes gold for being non-productive, he made a very different call when it came to silver. In 1997, he bought 111 million ounces (nearly 3,500 tons), turning that bold move into a $97 million pre-tax profit for Berkshire Hathaway.
Why the difference? Buffett sees silver not just as a precious metal, but also as an industrial powerhouse — used in everything from solar panels to electronics.
A Growing Supply Squeeze
According to the Silver Institute, silver is headed for its fifth consecutive year of a global supply deficit in 2025. Global demand is expected to hit 1.05 billion ounces — an 11-year high — while mine production will reach only 1.02 billion ounces, the highest in seven years.
Add to that a resurgence of institutional investment, especially from ETFs, and the setup becomes even more compelling.
“Western funds had pulled back in recent years, keeping prices suppressed,” Spina notes. “But now they’re coming back — and both investment and industrial demand are climbing.”
Bottom Line: Silver Could Be the Comeback Story of the Year
As fears about inflation, geopolitics, and economic uncertainty grow, investors are pouring into safe-haven assets. Gold may be leading the charge, but silver is sprinting to catch up — and it’s still early in the race.
If history — and Warren Buffett — are any guide, ignoring silver now could mean missing out on one of 2025’s biggest investment opportunities.
Vietnam has been recognized as the fourth safest country in Southeast Asia, following Singapore, Brunei, and Thailand, according to Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index.
This assessment, which evaluates 146 countries and territories worldwide, is based on public perceptions of safety during day and night walks, alongside reports of various crimes such as murder, robbery, and assault.
Vietnam’s safety index score of 59.2 out of 100 positions it ahead of regional neighbors like the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia. Singapore leads the region with a score of 77.4, reflecting its stringent laws and low crime rates that have established it as a secure destination for tourists.
Foreign tourists at Hanoi train street
The country’s political stability and commitment to safety have significantly contributed to its appeal among international travelers. In 2024, Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million foreign visitors, nearing the pre-pandemic figures of 2019. The tourism sector aims to attract 22-23 million foreign tourists in 2025.
International media outlets have frequently praised Vietnam as one of the safest places for solo travelers.
Globally, Andorra, nestled between Spain and France, topped Numbeo’s list as the safest country, while Venezuela was ranked the most dangerous.
Vietnam sent a powerful message in their opening match of the final qualifying round for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, thrashing Laos 5-0 in front of a roaring home crowd at Go Dau Stadium on Tuesday.
Backed by over 11,000 passionate fans in southern Vietnam, the Golden Star Warriors wasted no time asserting their dominance. Chau Ngoc Quang opened the scoring in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to tap home an easy finish and ignite the stands.
The pressure kept mounting, and just before halftime, Vietnam doubled their lead. After Nguyen Hai Long’s strike rattled the crossbar, Nguyen Van Vi was perfectly positioned to head the rebound into the net in the 44th minute. He wasn’t done yet—just five minutes into the second half, Van Vi dazzled the defense with a solo run and cool finish, bringing the score to 3-0.
Vietnam’s relentless attack continued. In the 63rd minute, Nguyen Hai Long joined the scoresheet with a precise long-range effort that left the Laos goalkeeper no chance. Then came the cherry on top: star midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai, coming off the bench, volleyed in a beautiful goal from a Nguyen Hoang Duc assist to seal the 5-0 rout in the 84th minute.
Laos had a few bright moments, notably a powerful long shot from Damoth Thongkhamsavath in the 52nd minute, but never truly threatened Vietnam’s goal.
With this emphatic win, Vietnam not only bagged three crucial points but also set the tone for what promises to be an exciting qualifying campaign. Up next: a highly anticipated clash with regional rival Malaysia in June.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of Singapore arrived in Hanoi, received by a distinguished Vietnamese delegation, including Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong, and Vietnamese Ambassador to Singapore Tran Phuoc Anh, at Noi Bai International Airport.
This official visit, occurring shortly after the elevation of the Vietnam-Singapore relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Party General Secretary To Lam’s Singapore trip, signifies the importance both nations place on this strengthened alliance. Vietnamese Ambassador Tran Phuoc Anh emphasized that this visit is a crucial step in realizing the shared vision of both leaderships.
Singaporean Ambassador Jaya Ratnam reiterated the commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation as a primary outcome of the previous visit. Prime Minister Wong’s schedule in Hanoi will prioritize exploring concrete avenues for collaboration, enabling Vietnam and Singapore to effectively address regional and global challenges and foster mutual prosperity.
Samsung Electronics is mourning the unexpected death of its CEO Han Jong-hee, who passed away suddenly from cardiac arrest—just days after his daughter’s wedding.
The tech world was rocked on March 25 when a Samsung spokesperson confirmed to Reuters that Han Jong-hee had died that morning. According to Chosun Biz, the 61-year-old executive collapsed after attending his daughter’s wedding on March 22 and was rushed to Seoul Samsung Hospital. Despite emergency efforts, he did not survive.
Han’s passing comes at a critical time for Samsung, as the South Korean tech giant grapples with falling profits, weakened stock performance, and intensifying competition. His funeral is scheduled for March 27.
Han Jong-hee had been at the forefront of Samsung’s mobile and consumer electronics business and was one of the company’s two co-CEOs, alongside Jun Young-hyun, who oversees the semiconductor division. He was slated to deliver a keynote at a major Samsung event on March 26, but the company abruptly announced on March 24 that a replacement speaker would be named.
Just a few days before his death, Han appeared at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting on March 19 in Suwon. There, he candidly admitted that Samsung’s edge in tech innovation had dulled. “I sincerely apologize for the recent stock price not meeting your expectations,” Han told shareholders. “Over the past year, the company failed to respond to the rapid changes in the AI chip market.”
Samsung has recently lost its crown as the world’s top smartphone maker to Apple and continues to struggle in the cutthroat arenas of consumer electronics and TV manufacturing—especially against aggressive Chinese competitors. Meanwhile, its performance in the advanced memory and contract chip manufacturing segments has fallen behind rivals.
Han had pledged to pursue bold moves, including “meaningful achievements” in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), to help restore growth and investor confidence.
His death comes amid internal turbulence. Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong recently issued an urgent message to the company’s top executives, warning that the conglomerate is at a make-or-break point.
“Samsung is facing a do-or-die survival problem. We need to deeply reflect on ourselves from the top,” Lee stated. “We must invest in the future, even if it means sacrificing short-term profits.”
Han Jong-hee’s passing marks the loss of a key figure during one of the most challenging chapters in Samsung’s history—and raises further questions about the company’s path forward.
