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Digital inclusive finance and rural entrepreneurial survival: The moderating role of digital and financial literacy

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  • Li, Bin
  • Pan, Ya

Abstract

This study explores the impact of digital inclusive finance on the survival of rural entrepreneurs in China, with a particular emphasis on the moderating roles of digital and financial literacy. Using data from the 2017 and 2019 China Household Finance Surveys, the analysis employs a logit model to examine entrepreneurial survival among 648 rural entrepreneurs. The findings indicate that higher levels of regional digital inclusive finance significantly enhance entrepreneurial survival, with the effect being more pronounced for individuals possessing greater digital and financial literacy. Furthermore, the results reveal that digital inclusive finance improves entrepreneurial survival primarily by enhancing business performance. This research contributes to the literature by identifying digital inclusive finance as a key determinant of entrepreneurial survival, emphasizing the moderating effects of digital and financial literacy, and providing actionable insights for policymakers and rural entrepreneurs to leverage digital financial tools for sustainable business success.

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  • Li, Bin & Pan, Ya, 2025. "Digital inclusive finance and rural entrepreneurial survival: The moderating role of digital and financial literacy," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 86(C), pages 1119-1136.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:86:y:2025:i:c:p:1119-1136
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2025.04.025
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