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Intelligent transformation and sustainable innovation capability: Evidence from China

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  • Yang, Siying
  • Wang, Wenzhi
  • Ding, Tao

Abstract

Previous studies overlook the impact of intelligence on enterprises' sustainable innovation capability. Our study shows that intelligent transformation enhances this ability (both inputs and outputs). We mitigate endogeneity through the instrumental variable, and the conclusion remains robust. The optimization of human capital structure and technological diversification constitute the underlying channels through which intelligent transformation promotes enterprises’ sustainable innovation. Further research indicates that the sustainable innovation effect of intelligent transformation is more significant in state-owned enterprises. These findings deepen our understanding of the dynamic effects of intelligent transformation on innovation.

Suggested Citation

  • Yang, Siying & Wang, Wenzhi & Ding, Tao, 2023. "Intelligent transformation and sustainable innovation capability: Evidence from China," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 55(PB).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:55:y:2023:i:pb:s1544612323003355
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2023.103963
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Mao, Jinzhou & Yang, Siying, 2024. "Changes in supply chain relationships and the enterprise internationalization process," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 67(PB).
    3. Liang, Zhanyong & Qiu, Kangquan & Zhuang, Jiakun & Zhang, Qingyang, 2025. "Business environment optimization and corporate sustainable innovation: Evidence from China," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
    4. Xu, Chongchong & Lin, Boqiang, 2025. "The AI-sustainability Nexus: How does intelligent transformation affect corporate green innovation?," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 102(C).
    5. Xinrui Zhan & Yunqing Liu & Xingxin Zhao, 2025. "The Impact of Technological Diversification on Innovation Performance: The Moderating Effects From an Agency Perspective," Managerial and Decision Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 46(5), pages 2726-2745, July.
    6. Qiuyue Zhang & Yu Cao, 2023. "Revolutionizing Chinese Manufacturing: Uncovering the Nexus of Intelligent Transformation and Capital Market Information Efficiency," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(19), pages 1-19, October.
    7. Zhou, Lanxuanjie & Tang, Chenxi & Cao, Yougen, 2025. "Innovative human capital, government support for science and technology policy, and supply chain resilience," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 74(C).
    8. Li, Tongbin & Gao, Juan, 2025. "Social security contributions, labor income share, and corporate innovation," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 77(C).
    9. Li, Tao, 2024. "Does smart transformation in manufacturing promote enterprise value chain upgrades?," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 69(PA).
    10. Ma, Lijuan & Wang, Huiyu & He, Congna & Sui, Xiang, 2025. "Can intelligent development improve manufacturing firms' supply chain resilience?," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 97(C).
    11. Qiu, Jiayu & Deng, Xinxia & Liang, Rui, 2024. "Can the enterprise intelligent transformation promote accounting information transparency? Pressure from media attention," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 66(C).
    12. Wang, Dingqing & Liao, Hongwei & Liu, Aiguo & Li, Dongdong, 2023. "Natural resource saving effects of data factor marketization: Implications for green recovery," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 85(PA).
    13. Haibo Sun & Tonghuan Bai & Youqing Fan & Zhonglu Liu, 2024. "Environmental, social, and governance performance and enterprise sustainable green innovation: Evidence from China," Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 31(4), pages 3633-3650, July.

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