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On May 3, the State Bank of Vietnam launched the online race “75 Years of the Vietnamese Banking Industry,” with results expected to be converted into up to 7.5 billion VND in donations to social welfare activities.
The race is part of activities marking 75 years since the banking sector’s establishment (May 6, 1951 – May 6, 2026). Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung said the initiative represents a new chapter for the sector, reflecting not only growth in scale but also “will, spirit, and unity” as Vietnam’s banking industry and the country enter a new era.
The program also links health training with community responsibility, highlighting the banking sector’s role in supporting remote areas, policy beneficiaries, and people facing difficult circumstances. Athletes’ achievements will be converted into up to 7.5 billion VND to support social welfare activities.
Registration closed on May 2, recording 51,000 participants from 51 teams. The figure is described as symbolic of 1951, the year the National Bank of Vietnam was established and which is now the State Bank of Vietnam.
Participants include staff and workers within the sector, covering units under the State Bank, financial institutions, the Cooperative Bank, the Bank for Social Policies, and commercial banks.
The race is organized entirely online. Participants use the Strava app to record running or outdoor walking results. Data are synchronized automatically and displayed publicly in real time. Athletes can choose their time and location, with the organizers citing transparency and accuracy.
The period for recording achievements runs for 26 days, from 0:01 on May 3 to 23:59 on May 28, 2026.
Nguyen Dinh Vinh, Chief of the State Bank’s Office, said the race is a sector-wide activity aimed at promoting physical fitness, strengthening solidarity, and fostering social responsibility.
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