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Artificial intelligence applications, regional inclusive finance development, and new quality productive

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  • Sun, Xinyue
  • Wu, Qiong

Abstract

Using data from 285 prefecture-level cities in China between 2011 and 2023, this study carries out a comprehensive analysis of how artificial intelligence (AI) application affects regional new quality productivity(NQP), and further explores the mediating role of inclusive finance development. The empirical analysis yields several key insights: AI applications exert a significant positive effect on regional NQP; inclusive finance development acts as an intermediary in transmitting the impact of AI applications to regional NQP; the influence of AI implementation on regional NQP varies across different geographical areas and digitalization levels; and these conclusions are robustly confirmed through endogeneity handling and reliability tests. The study’s findings offer theoretical underpinnings and policy implications for fostering NQP via the coordinated advancement of artificial intelligence and inclusive finance.

Suggested Citation

  • Sun, Xinyue & Wu, Qiong, 2026. "Artificial intelligence applications, regional inclusive finance development, and new quality productive," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 87(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:87:y:2026:i:c:s1544612325023189
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2025.109069
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    References listed on IDEAS

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