In today’s uncertain climate, investor relations (IR) has become instrumental in elevating a corporation’s value, especially as businesses aim for more cost-efficient capital access, according to Mathew Smith, head of Research at Yuanta Securities Vietnam.

Speaking at a seminar on the subject in Ho Chi Minh City in late September, Smith emphasised the significance of strategic communication with stakeholders.

“Through IR, businesses can improve access to funding, achieve more reasonable valuations, and increase their stock liquidity,” Smith noted. “It’s also the means to obtain feedback on corporate strategies and clarify details for investors, ensuring share price stability during crises.”

Better, longer growth at fingertips of savvy companies, illustration photo/ Source: Shutterstock

The financial market environment has seen bond yields decline for four consecutive decades. However, by 2021, there signs were there that the trend has begun to reverse, with yields rising and central banks like the US Federal Reserve hiking interest rates aggressively. This situation impacts the cost of corporate capital.

“When capital becomes expensive, IR becomes more vital than ever. It’s a time for companies to proactively share their positive news to attract investors. IR activities can help businesses access more affordable capital,” Smith added.

Le Hong Lien, senior director of Investor Relations at Techcombank, also spoke at the event. “The effectiveness of an organisation’s IR activities largely depends on the commitment and consensus of its leadership team,” Lien said.

“Leaders are both the brain and hands of a corporation. Their commitment contributes to half of IR’s efficiency.”

Meanwhile, VietinBank noted that the IR team is enhancing its efforts by collaborating with key stakeholders, including its significant stakeholder, MUFG. Elsewhere, PVTrans’ IR also emphasises sustainability through balancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.

A PVTrans spokesperson said, “We’re refining our IR initiatives, aiming for greater transparency and accountability, readying ourselves for prospective foreign capital, especially given Vietnam’s stock market’s anticipated status upgrade.”

In addition, a representative from Hanoi Plastics said, “Throughout our IR endeavours, we’ve faced challenges primarily due to limited channels of information for investors. To address this, the company has expanded its communication channels and remains proactive in correcting any significant misinformation.”

Moreover, it also places a particular emphasis on online channels, given the challenges and its direction towards solutions, the spokesperson concluded.

Nguyen Hoang Linh, research director at Vietcombank Securities Investment Fund Management, added that investment funds highly value businesses that prioritise ESG.

“Companies with good governance and social and environmental responsibility will sustain medium to long-term growth. Environmental standards are becoming increasingly stringent, and Vietnam is considering introducing a carbon credit exchange by 2025. Those unprepared might face increased costs and reduced competitive advantages,” Linh said.

“This ESG momentum, while global, calls for a unified endeavour. Whether individuals or corporations, all hands on deck are essential to shape a sustainable future,” Linh added. “Furthermore, progressing market stature is an enduring journey. We’re optimistic that listed firms will discern the long-term value and intensify their commitment to sustainability.”