Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation in advanced talks to increase its strategic stake in Vietnam’s VPBank

Reuters•Published: Sep 25, 2026 09:47 AM IST

Japan’s banking giant SMBC is reportedly negotiating a deal to boost its ownership in Vietnam’s VPBank. This move signals a major push by the Japanese lender to deepen its footprint in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

SMBC currently holds a 15% stake in VPBank, acquired in a $1.5 billion deal last year.
The potential transaction aims to strengthen the partnership and expand SMBC's access to Vietnam's retail and corporate banking sectors.
Negotiations are ongoing, and both parties have yet to finalize the specific terms or the size of the additional investment.
VPBank is one of Vietnam’s largest private lenders, making it a prime target for international financial institutions looking for growth.

The Context & Background

Vietnam has become a hotspot for foreign investment as global companies diversify their supply chains away from China. Japanese banks have been particularly aggressive in acquiring stakes in regional lenders to offset stagnant growth in their home market.

Why it matters:This deal highlights Vietnam's rising status as a financial powerhouse in Southeast Asia, attracting billions in foreign capital. For everyday customers, increased foreign investment often leads to better digital banking tools, more competitive loan rates, and improved financial services across the region.

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