Vietnam represents a fast-growing digital economy where many adults already hold digital accounts, but a significant segment remains underserved, with limited or no access to credit—one of the most critical financial tools for households and small businesses.
Tala aims to address this gap through its end-to-end, AI-native platform, which enables credit scoring, decision-making, and loan disbursement within minutes through its mobile app, the company said in a statement.
The company’s technology allows customers to access credit quickly, without the lengthy processes associated with traditional lending.
Global track record
Headquartered in the United States, Tala has more than 13 million customers worldwide and has disbursed about $7 billion across three continents over the past decade.
Vietnam is the latest addition to Tala’s Asia operations, following its earlier expansion into the Philippines.
“We’re proud to partner with CIMB, one of the most respected banks in Vietnam, to provide safe, affordable credit to many people who don’t have access,” Shivani Siroya, Tala’s CEO and founder, said in the same statement.
“Our proprietary technology and customer-focused approach position us well to serve underserved Vietnamese consumers.”
Flexible credit product
Under the partnership, Tala and CIMB will roll out a flexible line-of-credit product that allows eligible customers to access credit limits of up to VND 30 million.
Each drawdown carries a tenor of up to 61 days, with repayment schedules that customers can align with their individual financial plans.
Borrowers may also repay their loans early without incurring fees, helping ease financial pressure. The entire registration and approval process is fully digitized through Tala’s mobile application, significantly shortening processing times and enabling faster disbursement.
Serving the underserved
“I’ve seen first-hand the frustration caused by the lack of good credit options for everyday Vietnamese,” said Steven Truong, general manager of Tala Vietnam.
“This partnership with CIMB will allow us to reach underbanked customers and advance Tala’s mission.”
CIMB brings regulatory expertise, infrastructure, and local market knowledge, while Tala contributes technology and experience serving underbanked populations. Together, the companies aim to deliver a seamless and responsible digital lending experience.
Philippines footprint
Before entering Vietnam, Tala established a strong foothold in the Philippines, where it now serves 4.5 million customers. Since 2017, Tala Philippines has disbursed 28 million loans worth P137 billion.
Beyond credit, Tala Philippines has expanded financial literacy initiatives and strengthened anti-fraud measures, reinforcing its commitment to responsible lending and financial inclusion. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
