Vietnam's consumer finance major F88 wins M-CRIL’s gold-level client protection certification

F88 Investment JSC (F88), a pioneering enterprise in the field of alternative finance in Vietnam, has once again reaffirmed its position by receiving the prestigious Gold-Level Client Protection Certification (CPC) from M-CRIL.

M-CRIL, supported by funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is one of the world’s leading financial rating agencies for microfinance institutions. Its work helps reduce risks for financial institutions and assists microenterprises in adopting best practices in their operations.

This marks the third time F88 has been awarded this prestigious title since 2019, and the second consecutive time it has maintained the highest level of certification.

This achievement clearly demonstrates its unwavering commitment to building a transparent, sustainable financial system that puts customer interests at its core.

The CPC is a comprehensive assessment system that rigorously evaluates financial institutions on their adherence to client protection principles. Based on standards developed by Cerise and SPTF - two globally recognized organizations in social performance management, the CPC demands excellence in every aspect, from product design and governance processes to customer experience.

What did F88 do to meet M-CRIL’s 8 client protection principles?

To earn the Gold certification, a financial institution must simultaneously meet all eight fundamental principles, 26 core practices, and 128 detailed assessment indicators, with a minimum compliance rate of 95% and no violations of exclusion criteria.

With an impressive compliance rate of 98.3%, F88 has proven its exceptional ability to implement a comprehensive and effective client protection system.

This accomplishment is not by chance, but it is the result of a responsible development strategy built on the eight core principles of client protection.

First, F88 continuously researches and develops financial products tailored to the real needs of specific customer segments, making it easier and faster for them to access funding.

Second, all product information, especially fees, interest rates, and payment schedules, is standardized, clearly illustrated, and communicated in a simple, transparent manner so that customers can easily understand.

Third, when customers bring in assets for transactions, F88 commits to responsible pricing policies, ensuring interest rates and fees are reasonable and aligned with the services provided.

Fourth, customer data is collected and stored with their consent, in compliance with legal regulations, and protected with strict internal access controls.

Fifth, customer data is also used to assess credit scores and evaluate repayment capacity, helping reduce bad debt risk and prevent clients from falling into unnecessary financial burdens.

Sixth, as a business driven by integrity, F88 ensures fair treatment for all customers and proactively supports vulnerable groups in accessing suitable financial solutions. All product, credit, and debt restructuring decisions follow the principle of “do no harm clients”, showing the company’s utmost respect and responsibility.

Seventh, a multi-channel complaint handling mechanism has been established, allowing customers to easily voice concerns. F88 said it maintains a 99% complaint resolution rate within 30 days, reflecting its willingness to listen and understand customers.

Finally, F88 has built a solid management foundation, including clear internal policies, an effective credit risk control framework, and regular ethical training programs for staff.

Positive impact: Customer trust and loyalty

F88's continuous efforts have yielded tangible results. In the first half of 2025, the company achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 73%, and over 50% of customers returned to use its services. These impressive figures are a testament to customer trust in F88's service quality and client protection commitment.

Phung Anh Tuan, chairman and CEO of F88, emphasized: "A company like F88 cannot grow sustainably if it abandons its social mission just to maximize profit. We want to grow alongside our customers' prosperity - not keep them in perpetual debt."

Strengthening market position and investor confidence

As F88 was recently recognized as a public company and is moving closer to its goal of registering on the Unlisted Public Companies Market (UPCoM), the Gold-Level Client Protection Certification further strengthens investor and partner confidence, especially among those prioritizing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies.

It serves as clear evidence that F88 is a responsible, transparent, and socially conscious partner, making it a safe and attractive investment opportunity.

F88 recorded after-tax profit of VND351 billion ($13.73 million) in 2024, an all-time high. Its total revenue last year hit VND3,347 billion ($130.92 million), up by over 23.2% compared to 2023.