Vietnam is set for a major milestone in its financial journey. Starting September 21, 2026, the country’s stock market will be upgraded from a frontier to a secondary emerging market by FTSE Russell, a leading global index provider. The decision follows recent reforms that make it easier for foreign investors to buy and sell Vietnamese stocks.
The upgrade will gradually include Vietnamese companies in FTSE’s global equity indices over the next year, ensuring the market can absorb new capital without sudden shocks. Analysts expect this change to bring billions of dollars in investment, boosting liquidity and strengthening the overall market.
Key reforms behind the upgrade include a global broker model allowing international investors to trade without local accounts, and the removal of a prefunding requirement, which previously made foreign investment cumbersome. About 32 large companies are likely to be included first, offering global investors exposure to Vietnam’s top industrial and financial firms.
Vietnam’s elevation puts it alongside larger Asian markets like India, China, and Indonesia, increasing its visibility and credibility on the global stage.
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