As green transition becomes an inevitable trend in the modern economy, the circular economy not only calls for innovation in production and business operations but also encourages changes in public awareness and consumer behavior. In particular, balancing financial capacity, product value, and environmental responsibility has become an increasingly important issue for the younger generation. With this in mind, on October 17, 2026, at the 10th-floor auditorium of Lecture Hall B2, the Faculty of International Economics Youth Union of Ho Chi Minh City University of Banking (HUB) organized the seminar “Financial Management - Who is willing to pay for the Circular Economy?”, creating an academic and practical platform for discussions on the relationship between financial decisions and sustainable consumption.
(The seminar “Financial Management - Who is willing to pay for the Circular Economy?” held at the Auditorium on the 10th Floor of Lecture Hall B2)
(Distinguished guests, lecturers, and invited speakers)
At the seminar, students had the opportunity to explore practical issues surrounding the economic value of green products, consumers’ purchasing power, and the factors influencing their decisions to choose environmentally friendly products. Through real-world analyses and case studies, the seminar raised a thought-provoking question: Are consumers willing to pay more for products that offer environmental benefits, and what determines their willingness to do so? This encouraged students to examine consumer behavior not only in terms of price and individual benefits but also in relation to long-term value, resource efficiency, and social responsibility.
Beyond discussions on consumer behavior, the seminar broadened students’ perspectives on the role of financial management in promoting the circular economy. From personal budgeting to corporate investment and capital allocation, financial decisions can all influence the development and expansion of sustainable business models. Before and during the event, the poster exhibition “The Circular Economy through students’ perspectives,” together with the interactive survey “How much more are you willing to pay for Green/Circular Products?”, created a lively and engaging academic environment.
(Speakers and lecturers visiting the poster exhibition “The Circular Economy through students’ perspectives” and listening to students’ presentations)
The diverse perspectives presented at the exhibition helped students relate the circular economy more closely to their everyday lives. Choosing green products depends not only on environmental awareness but also on factors such as income, price, quality, reliability, and the benefits offered by the products. Through these activities, the seminar provided a more comprehensive perspective on how to make sustainable values more accessible to consumers while highlighting the importance of responsible financial decisions in the green transition.
The seminar welcomed speakers with extensive professional expertise and practical experience, including Dr. Ngo Ngoc Quang, Lecturer at the Faculty of International Economics, Ho Chi Minh City University of Banking; Mr. Pham Dang An, Deputy General Director of Vu Phong Energy Group and Member of the Board of Directors of EVNPECC3; and Dr. Nguyen Huu Thi (Hoang Thi), an expert from the business sector and the banking industry’s sustainability field. Drawing on perspectives from both academia and business practice, the speakers offered valuable insights into the role of finance in promoting sustainable economic models, as well as the factors to consider when making consumption and investment decisions.
(Speakers sharing practical insights and answering questions during the discussion session)
One of the topics that attracted considerable attention during the Q&A session was the transformation of the labor market amid the shift toward green development and sustainability. The speakers addressed students’ concerns in detail while highlighting promising career opportunities in financial management, investment, risk management, and capital management at businesses transitioning toward circular economy models.
(Students actively engaging in discussions and asking the speakers questions during the seminar)
In an open and interactive atmosphere, students from the Faculty of International Economics proactively raised questions, discussed real-world scenarios, and connected classroom knowledge with the dynamics of modern financial markets. The discussions underscored the importance of building a solid foundation of professional knowledge, developing sharp analytical thinking, and strengthening adaptability to meet the evolving standards of the economy.
(A memorable group photo featuring lecturers, speakers, and students at the seminar)
The seminar “Financial Management - Who is willing to pay for the Circular Economy?” concluded with valuable and practical takeaways. It not only equipped students with a stronger foundation in personal financial management but also fostered an investment mindset aligned with sustainable development. These insights will serve as an important foundation for students of the Faculty of International Economics to confidently seize future career opportunities and build a solid pathway toward their professional aspirations.