Is this the best news story in Asia? What Vietnam means for your business
Michael Kokalari, Chief Economist, VinaCapital
Additional panelists to be advised
No-one would dispute that Vietnam is a growth champion, but what lies ahead for this market, and how should multinationals prepare? To help us answer this question, the Global CFO Network is delighted to be joined by an august panel of experts and observers. Michael Kokalari, Chief Economist at VinaCapital, will set out where that growth is coming from, how durable it is, and what it means for multinationals weighing Vietnam for manufacturing, sourcing, shared services or market entry. The discussion will address the practical questions CFOs face, including the cost of capital, currency exposure, regulatory and political reform, and how best ot reach this large, diverse and rapidly-evolving market. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Mike has worked in Vietnam for 15 years, including for seven years as VinaCapital’s Chief Economist, prior to which he was an investment banker at JP Morgan, First Boston and Lehman Brothers in London & Tokyo.
The head office perspective: cutting through complexity
Arthur Lang, Group Chief Financial Officer, Singtel
What does it take to run Finance at one of the Asia Pacific’s most complex and capital-intensive businesses? In this session, Singtel Group Chief Financial Officer Arthur Lang will share how the company is reshaping its Finance function to support growth across telecommunications, digital infrastructure and adjacent technology investments. From capital allocation across a diverse portfolio to driving performance in a fast-evolving competitive landscape, Arthur will offer a practical view on how Finance can balance discipline with strategic ambition. Leading the Finance function at a group level for a multinational company is complex, and has unique challenges, including managing Singtel’s core Singapore business while driving growth in it’s Australian arm, Optus. Arthur brings to our disussion a broad perspective, having overseen Singtel’s transformation efforts across both its core operations and its portfolio of regional associates. Prior to joining Singtel, he held senior roles in investment banking, giving him deep experience in capital markets, M&A and investor engagement.
Additional session to be advised.
This session will incorporate morning tea and an informal networking luncheon. Members may attend with a member of their Finance team.