Exploring the impact of Fintech credit and cybersecurity on carbon emissions: A global analysis

The rise of financial technology (Fintech) has reshaped the global financial landscape and opened new opportunities to support the environment. As countries face growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, understanding the role of internet security and digital financing products, specifically Fintech credit, which operates outside the jurisdiction of central banking regulations, has become increasingly important. This study analyzes data from 73 countries between 2013 and 2019, using Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) and the one-step system Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to explore the relationship between Fintech credit financing, internet security, and carbon emissions. The findings reveal that Fintech credit significantly reduces carbon emissions globally and across income status (e.g., developed and developing countries). While internet security also reduces emissions in developed countries and globally, it appears to increase emissions in developing nations; however, this may be due to weaker digital infrastructure, limited technological access, and lower user trust. This study underscores the importance of developing inclusive and environmentally sustainable Fintech credit systems as a form of digital service innovation, alongside implementing context-specific cybersecurity strategies.