UOB and FPT Partner on AI-driven APAC Banking Growth

United Overseas Bank and FPT Corporation have formalised a partnership to explore AI integration and digital transformation opportunities across Asia Pacific (APAC) financial markets.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the Vietnam-Singapore Tech Connect Forum in Singapore.

The agreement was exchanged during an official visit by H.E. To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam and State President.

The collaboration could focus on digital banking platforms, legacy system modernisation, payment infrastructure, digital lending solutions and embedded finance initiatives.

Regional technology and banking alignment

Pilot programmes could be implemented in Vietnam and other regional markets.

Cross-border financial services and enterprise expansion form part of the planned cooperation.

According to the announcement, the detailed implementation roadmap, governance model and expected outcomes will be finalised in the coming period.

FPT Corporation operates across APAC from its Vietnam headquarters.

The company provides engineering services in AI, cloud computing, data management, automation and system modernisation to more than 500 enterprises.

David Nguyen, CEO of FPT Asia Pacific, FPT Corporation says: "The future of financial services will be shaped by how effectively institutions scale AI, modernise digital platforms, and strengthen cross-border connectivity.

"Together with UOB, we aim to build more scalable, AI-first models while opening stronger pathways for innovation, enterprise growth and ecosystem connectivity across Vietnam, Singapore and the wider APAC region."

Singapore and wider APAC markets form part of FPT Corporation's commercial strategy. The company's regional presence complements United Overseas Bank's banking network across Southeast Asia.

United Overseas Bank has indicated transformation plans to accelerate adoption of generative and agentic AI technologies.

These technologies could enhance productivity, risk management and customer experience functions across the institution.

Technological modernisation for financial services

The partnership builds on United Overseas Bank's operations in Vietnam through its local franchise.

The bank has positioned itself as a connector between businesses and opportunities across Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) markets.

Mr Lawrence Goh, Head of Technology and Operations, UOB, notes: "This MoU reflects UOB's strategic intent to build a future-ready bank through strong technology foundations, responsible AI and purposeful partnerships.

"Together with FPT, we will explore practical opportunities to modernise our architecture, improve development productivity, scale AI responsibly and develop innovative solutions that create long-term value for our customers and businesses."

The commercial focus remains on productivity improvements and architectural modernisation through technology integration.

Both organisations have emphasised responsible AI implementation as a priority.

The collaboration could support innovation and growth across Vietnam and regional markets. United Overseas Bank and FPT Corporation will finalise specific project scopes in subsequent planning phases.

In 2025, UOB mobilised US$70.1bn in sustainable finance, reinforcing its role in supporting the APAC's economic growth and low-carbon transition.

UOB is continuing to leverage its network of more than 500 offices across 19 countries and territories, particularly in key ASEAN markets.

The bank is using digital banking platforms to scale sustainable finance solutions, improve access to green funding and support investment in sectors such as renewable energy, data centres and healthcare.

The bank is also increasing support for small and medium-sized enterprises, providing US$7.8bn in sustainable financing to help businesses adopt more sustainable practices.

Through its combination of regional expansion, technology investment and sustainability-focused financing, UOB is strengthening its position as a leading financial partner across Southeast Asia.