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E-commerce integration, financial services enhancement, and rural revitalization: A quasi-natural experiment based on the comprehensive demonstration county pilot of e-commerce in rural areas

Author

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  • Qi, Yifan
  • Gao, Yasi
  • Wu, Yanghui

Abstract

This paper, based on provincial panel data from China from 2007 to 2023, employs a combination of benchmark regression, Difference-in-Differences (DID), and mediation effect models to systematically analyze the impact mechanisms and pathways of the integration of e-commerce into rural areas and the enhancement of financial services on rural revitalization(RUR). Empirical results indicate that: (1) the integration of e-commerce into rural areas significantly promotes RUR, with its positive effects being more pronounced in regions with lower levels of fiscal support, highlighting significant regional heterogeneity; (2) the enhancement of financial services plays a robust and significant positive role in RUR; (3) the enhancement of financial services serves a crucial mediating role in the process by which e-commerce integration into rural areas affects RUR.

Suggested Citation

  • Qi, Yifan & Gao, Yasi & Wu, Yanghui, 2025. "E-commerce integration, financial services enhancement, and rural revitalization: A quasi-natural experiment based on the comprehensive demonstration county pilot of e-commerce in rural areas," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 85(PD).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:85:y:2025:i:pd:s1544612325014874
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2025.108232
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    References listed on IDEAS

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