HÀ NỘI — Though the latest US Federal Reserve (Fed)’s interest rate decision will not have a major impact here in Việt Nam, the move is still a positive signal for the economy, experts said. Last Wednesday, the Fed held its benchmark interest rate steady in the 5.25-5.50 per cent range, for a seventh consecutive meeting. Dr. Lê Duy Bình, Managing Director of economic consulting firm Economica Vietnam, said that although the Fed’s recent decision will not have a great impact, it is still a positive signal for many economies, including Việt Nam. If the Fed lowers interest rates in the near future, it will create excitement for many economies and Việt Nam is no exception because there is less pressure to adjust interest rates, Bình said. UOB’s analysts believe the SBV will keep the refinancing interest rate at the current rate of 4.5 per cent and focus efforts on supporting credit growth.
