According to experts, 2025 will be a pivotal year, bringing both volatility and opportunities across various investment channels. Will stocks, real estate, gold, or savings offer the best returns?

Stocks or real estate: Which is the better bet?

Nguyen Quang Huy, CEO of the Finance and Banking Faculty at Nguyen Trai University, believes that Vietnam’s stock market is likely to be upgraded from a frontier market to an emerging market in 2025. This transition could attract significant foreign investment, improving liquidity and increasing trading value.

Sectors such as technology, real estate, energy, and infrastructure are expected to benefit the most, driven by economic expansion, urbanization, and public investment.

"If investors choose the right stocks or leading sectors, they can achieve outstanding returns. Stocks offer flexibility in trading, but prices can be affected by market sentiment and economic conditions," Huy noted.

To minimize risks, he recommends investors focus on blue-chip stocks in technology, real estate, and energy. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or index funds could also be viable options for those seeking diversification.

A look at investment options for 2025: stocks, real estate, gold, or savings?

Regarding real estate, Huy highlights that properties priced between $82,000 and $205,000 will lead the market due to strong demand from middle-income buyers.

"If lending rates continue to decline and economic stimulus packages are implemented, real estate will become an attractive investment. Key infrastructure projects, highways, and industrial zones will boost property values in rapidly developing areas," he said.

However, he also cautions that real estate transactions require significant capital and time. Market conditions can be influenced by legal regulations and credit fluctuations.

To maximize potential gains, he advises investors to focus on properties in strategic locations with well-developed infrastructure and real demand, rather than speculating on high-end or remote areas.

Economist Nguyen Tri Hieu notes that global stock markets, particularly in the U.S., will be impacted by Donald Trump's policies, which could also affect Vietnam’s stock market.

"Stock market movements in 2025 will be highly volatile, offering high returns but with increased uncertainty," Hieu warned.

Meanwhile, he expects Vietnam’s real estate sector to recover better than in 2024, thanks to amendments in key laws such as the Real Estate Business Law, Housing Law, and Land Law. These changes will bring more stability but are unlikely to trigger a sudden boom due to persistently high property prices.

Gold or savings: Which is the safer choice?

Huy views gold as a reliable asset during times of global economic instability or geopolitical conflict.

"Gold is easy to buy and sell, with a large global market. Prices tend to rise when interest rates drop or the U.S. dollar weakens. However, gold prices are influenced by external factors like Fed policies and market supply and demand. Unlike stocks or bonds, gold does not generate regular income like dividends or interest payments," he explained.

To hedge against risk, he suggests allocating around 10% of an investment portfolio to gold.

While savings accounts offer liquidity and safety, Huy acknowledges that their returns are relatively low compared to other investment channels. In 2025, interest rates on savings are expected to range from 5% to 7% annually, ensuring positive real interest rates amid controlled inflation.

Thus, savings should be used primarily as a supplementary investment to maintain liquidity rather than as a primary wealth-building strategy.

"In 2025, each investment channel presents unique opportunities and risks. Investors should allocate their portfolios wisely based on risk tolerance and financial goals while closely monitoring economic trends for optimal returns," Huy advised.

Economist Nguyen Tri Hieu also pointed out that in 2024, gold jewelry prices rose by about 30%, while gold bars increased by around 15%.

"In Vietnam, where gold bars are subject to market controls, gold jewelry could offer higher returns in 2025. Investors looking for profitability should prioritize gold, particularly gold jewelry, followed by stocks, real estate, foreign currencies, and savings," he suggested.

Nguyen Le