The study investigates the asymmetric effect of exchange rate changes on stock prices in Vietnam. We use the nonlinear autoregressivedistributed lag (ARDL) analysis for monthly data from 2001:01 to 2018:05, based on VN-Index stock price collected from Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE); the nominal exchange rate is separated into currency depreciation and appreciation through a partial sum decomposition process. Asymmetry is estimated both in the long-run relationship and the short-run error correction mechanism. The research results show that the effect of exchange rate changes on stock prices is asymmetrical, both in the short run and in long run. Accordingly, the stock prices react to different levels to depreciation and appreciation. However, the currency appreciation affects a stronger transmission of stock prices when compared to the long-run currency depreciation. In the absence of asymmetry, the exchange rate only has a short-run impact on stock prices. This implies a symmetrical assumption that underestimates the impact of exchange rate changes on stock prices in Vietnam. This study points to an important implication for regulators in Vietnam. They should consider the relationship between exchange rate changes and stock prices in both the long run and the short run to manage the stock and foreign exchange market.

The purpose of this study is to investigate factors affecting the leadership capacity of middle managers and then evaluate the corresponding effect on the performance of subordinates in Vietnamese economic and defense enterprises. Data for the study was collected from questionnaire survey of 15 economic and defense enterprises, preceded by in-depth interviews with respondents who are subordinates of the departments/divisions of these enterprises. The research used logistic regression estimator to address econometric issues and to improve the accuracy of the regression coefficients. Our results show that the determinants of the leadership capacity of mid-level managers in defense and economic enterprises include: (i) personal qualities and qualities of managerial officials (understanding, courage), fairness, assertiveness and compliance), and leadership behaviors of two leadership styles – (ii) a transforming leadership style (influenced by ideals, inspirations, concerns) subordinates, stimulating intellect) and (iii) transactional leadership style (rewarding, detecting and handling problems for subordinates). Based on these results, our study suggests that middle managers should possess superior knowledge, care more about subordinates, understand the strengths and weaknesses of each subordinate, always be creative, assertive and courageous people as well as have high standards of competency and morality in order to become outstanding leaders in Vietnamese economic and defense enterprises.