On its journey of accompanying People’s Credit Funds (PCFs), the support activities of the Ha Nam Branch of Co-operative Bank of Vietnam (Co-opBank) are reflected not only in impressive figures but also in the consistency of its comprehensive solutions—from capital intermediation and provision of transaction tools to intensive training and digital transformation. These efforts have created a holistic support model, enabling PCFs to grow robustly and sustainably while enhancing the quality of credit services for local communities.
Placing PCFs at the Center of Operations
In 2024 alone, Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch issued 23 capital intermediation interest rate adjustments 16 decisions on deposit interest rates and 7 decisions on lending rates for PCFs. This figure alone demonstrates the branch’s close attention and commitment to supporting PCFs.
According to Mr. Bui Dinh Thanh, Acting Director of Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch, capital intermediation for the local PCF system has always been regarded as a top priority throughout the branch’s operational journey. The branch consistently gives precedence to receiving inter-fund deposits and promptly meeting liquidity needs at any time for PCFs. It supports PCFs by offering deposit interest rates that are at least 0.1% per annum higher than those offered to individual and institutional depositors, while lending rates to PCFs remain lower than those applied to corporate and individual clients. In 2024, the branch extended VND 234 billion in credit, with outstanding loans totaling VND 59.15 billion as of December 31, 2024..
Notably, the branch has actively advised PCFs to utilize Co-opBank’s products and services to optimize capital usage and meet liquidity and credit expansion needs. For example, in terms of overdraft services via payment accounts, the PCFs recorded VND 461 billion in disbursed overdrafts in 2024 to meet their payment obligations. Additionally, the branch coordinated with PCFs to implement 82 syndicated loan transactions with a total disbursement of VND 94 billion, of which VND 58 billion remains outstanding.
The branch’s role as the banker for PCFs is further reinforced by its provision of blank savings books, loan usage inspections, and risk monitoring. By leveraging data submitted by PCFs via the PRMS reporting system, the branch carries out remote monitoring procedures, conducts loan utilization checks, and issues timely warnings to PCFs that show signs of violating operational safety regulations.
The branch also maintains regular communication to stay updated on the status of PCFs, attends PCF Annual Member Assemblies, and provides timely encouragement and support. Furthermore, it works in coordination with the Vietnam Association of People’s Credit Funds (VAPCF) in implementing regulatory documents related to PCF operations.
Supporting PCFs in Digital Transformation
In recent times, Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch has proactively mobilized resources to effectively implement initiatives promoting the Co-opBank brand and deploying a wide range of multi-channel, multi-utility payment service packages to PCFs in the region. These efforts have delivered tangible benefits to PCFs and their members.
To date, all 12 out of 12 PCFs in the area have joined the CF-eBank electronic fund transfer system. In 2024 alone, these PCFs processed 11,238 outgoing transfer transactions with a total value of VND 2,951 billion and received 811 incoming transfers amounting to VND 92 billion.
Digital banking services launched by Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch have been warmly received by the PCFs. From January 1 to December 31, 2024, PCFs introduced 1,310 new payment accounts at the branch, with an average balance per account of VND 5.7 billion. All 12 PCFs signed cooperation agreements to deploy digital banking services, and all registered and actively used the Co-opBank CfeBiz application.
Notably, the branch launched the Cfe-PCF remote service initiation system, which enables efficient management and rapid document flow from PCFs to Co-opBank, digitalizes data, and shortens service processing times. The system allows PCFs to register customer information, sign up for digital banking services, apply for loans, and handle inquiries or complaints. As of December 31, 2024, all 12 PCFs had adopted the system.
In addition, the branch maintains regular communication with PCFs to share updates on information security, especially regarding payment transfer risks, helping PCFs improve controls and adopt effective measures to safeguard operations.
In 2024, the branch organized a thematic conference on payment and treasury safety for PCFs. It also collaborated with Co-opBank Headquarters to guide PCFs through training programs on CF-eBank electronic transfers. Furthermore, in coordination with the Vietnam Association of People’s Credit Funds (VAPCF), the branch held internal audit and control training programs, which received high praise from PCF leadership for their quality.
Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch has also actively expanded its base of corporate and individual customers, contributing to local economic development. The branch has implemented interest rate reductions, customer segmentation strategies, and maximized the use of available funding sources to support loan growth. As of December 31, 2024, outstanding loans to corporate and individual customers reached VND 955 billion, an increase of VND 158 billion or 19.8% compared to 2023, meeting 100% of the annual target.
In the coming period, Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch will continue to enhance its capital intermediation efforts, expand lending to PCF members and syndicated lending, and further strengthen system linkages. The branch also aims to boost capital mobilization for liquidity and credit growth by diversifying deposit products and introducing new deposit offerings tailored to customer needs—especially targeting individuals, economic organizations, and PCFs. It will gradually expand lending to corporate and individual customers to help improve living standards, while prioritizing credit for agriculture and rural development sectors. At the same time, the branch will intensify the implementation of digital banking solutions, contributing to Ha Nam’s transition toward a digital economy that plays a central role in the province’s economic growth. By 2025, the goal is for the digital economy to account for at least 10% of each sector’s total output.
Some Highlighted Images:
The Leadership Team and Staff of Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch
Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch continues to effectively carry out capital intermediation, expand lending to PCF members and syndicated lending, and strengthen linkages within the system
Co-opBank Ha Nam Branch actively participates in local social welfare initiatives
