The World Financial Innovation Series (WFIS) took place on April 15-16, 2025, at the Melia Hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam. This annual event gathers leaders from the global financial services industry to discuss strategies, innovations, and emerging technologies. It serves as a key platform for sharing insights and fostering collaboration across the financial ecosystem.
WFIS, which made its debut in Vietnam in 2023, has quickly become a trusted event, backed by the Vietnam Banks Association (VNBA). The event aims to drive transformation within the financial sector by showcasing forward-thinking solutions and fostering partnerships among financial institutions, tech pioneers, and regulatory bodies.
In 2025, the theme of WFIS was “Smarter – Simpler – Faster: Transformation of Vietnam’s Financial Revolution.” Over 500 delegates, including leaders from the State Bank of Vietnam and VNBA, as well as executives from more than 100 banks, insurers, and financial institutions, attended the event. Over 40 speakers and 25 solution providers shared their expertise and highlighted critical issues shaping the future of financial services.
The conference spotlighted influential voices in both finance and technology, offering strategic insights to address challenges and accelerate innovation in the industry. This year’s WFIS served as a platform for visionaries to set the stage for the future of banking in Vietnam.
Awards Recognize Excellence in Vietnam’s Banking Sector
The WFIS 2025 Vietnam Awards recognized leaders who are shaping the financial services sector. The awards honored individuals in various categories for their transformative work in areas such as IT innovation, governance, customer experience, data management, and cybersecurity.
IT Maestro(s) of the Year: Tran Cong Quynh Lan (VietinBank) and Nguyen Anh Tuan (Techcombank) were recognized for their leadership in IT innovation and their contributions to improving operational efficiency.
GRC Advocate of the Year: Le Tien Dung (Vietnam Maritime Commercial Joint Stock Bank) was awarded for his leadership in governance, risk, and compliance.
CX Innovator of the Year: Hoang Anh Duc (Vietnam Maritime Commercial Joint Stock Bank) received the award for transforming customer experience with innovative strategies.
Data & Analytics Leader of the Year: Pham Thi Nguyet Nga (Orient Commercial Bank) was recognized for her outstanding work in data management.
Retail Banker of the Year: Do Tuyet Trinh (HDBank) was honored for her role in driving growth and implementing effective strategies in retail banking.
Marketing Leader of the Year: Nguyen Minh Ha (ACB Securities Company) was awarded for her leadership and innovative approach in marketing.
Cyber Practitioner of the Year: Van Anh Tuan (Techcombank) was recognized for his work in strengthening cyber security.
Woman Influencer in Financial Services: Nguyen Ngoc Lan Anh (Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam) was honored for her contributions to the industry and for promoting diversity and gender equality.
These awards celebrated individuals who are driving change and innovation in the financial sector, helping to shape the future of banking in Vietnam.
Looking Ahead: Continued Innovation and Collaboration
The success of WFIS 2025 highlighted the growing importance of innovation and collaboration within the financial industry. As banks and financial institutions continue to face challenges in the digital transformation journey, the insights shared at WFIS will play a crucial role in guiding the sector forward.
The event also underscored the growing role of technology in reshaping financial services in Vietnam, paving the way for a smarter, simpler, and faster financial ecosystem.
Support for Banking Sector Transformation
Alongside WFIS, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) announced a project to develop a shared database for the banking sector. Supported by the World Bank and implemented by KPMG Vietnam, this project aims to enhance collaboration and streamline information sharing across the industry.
The initiative reflects the growing focus on improving digital infrastructure within the financial sector and increasing support for small traders and consumer lending, particularly in areas like social housing. This project is expected to play a key role in driving economic growth and supporting Vietnam’s financial transformation.
Conclusion
The World Financial Innovation Series 2025 has once again demonstrated the importance of innovation, collaboration, and strategic leadership in shaping the future of financial services in Vietnam. As the country continues to modernize its banking sector, events like WFIS will remain crucial in fostering connections, sharing insights, and driving the industry forward.
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