The venture, in which Morgan Stanley will own a 49% stake, will be based in Hanoi and operate as Morgan Stanley Gateway Securities Joint Stock Company.

The new venture has received an underwriting license from the State Securities Commission. Following the financial closing of the transaction Morgan Stanley Gateway Securities will be able to conduct a range of services in Vietnam including investment banking advisory and underwriting, brokerage services, research and principal investing.

Minh Huong, CEO of Gateway Securities, added: As Vietnam continues on its path of economic growth and international integration, benefiting from its demographics, natural resources and low cost base, we see significant business opportunities ahead. The combination of Morgan Stanley’s brand and global expertise and Gateway’s local capabilities, will enable us to capitalize on these opportunities.