Market Overview

The VN-Index experienced a downturn, closing 8.24 points lower after a significant drop in the previous session. Trading on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange saw a decrease of 0.37%, amounting to VND13.698 trillion (US$539.6 million).

Performance of Key Stocks

Among the VN-30 basket, which includes the 30 largest capped stocks, 17 tickers fell. Notably, MSN of Masan Group dropped by 3.6%, GVR of Vietnam Rubber Group slipped 3.0%, and MWG of Mobile World decreased by 2.7%. On a brighter note, eight blue chips gained, with BID of BIDV rising 1.6%, VCB of Vietcombank closing 1.0% higher, and SHB of Saigon Hanoi Commercial Bank increasing by 0.5%.

Foreign Investment Trends

Foreign investors emerged as net buyers, investing VND115 billion primarily in STB of Sacombank and VTP of Viettel Post.

Other Indices

The HNX-Index for the Hanoi Stock Exchange and the UPCoM-Index for the Unlisted Public Companies Market also saw declines, falling by 1.20% and 0.77%, respectively.

Global Market Context

Globally, stocks edged up amidst anticipation of pivotal U.S. economic data that could influence interest rate expectations. Despite this, political uncertainties tempered any new-year optimism. The MSCI All-World index rose by 0.1%, reflecting a mixed performance in Europe, while U.S. stock index futures suggested an extension of Friday's rally.

China's Market Dynamics

In China, the yuan hit a 16-month low, and blue-chip stocks traded at their weakest since late September. This prompted interventions from the country's stock exchanges and central bank to stabilize falling markets and address investor concerns amidst the backdrop of Donald Trump's imminent return to the White House.