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Fintech, BigTech credit and sustainable development: International evidence

Author

Listed:
  • Hussain, Shahzad
  • Ur Rehman, Ajid
  • Affandi, Hina
  • Al-Faryan, Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
  • Naifar, Nader

Abstract

This research study explores the connection between financial and technological services, namely BigTech and Fintech credit and sustainable development in 85 nations. The findings show a strong and positive association between tech-enabled credit and sustainable development, although with a more substantial impact observed in developed economies than in developing ones. The study highlights how Fintech credit promotes financial inclusion, reduces the cost of transactions, and encourages investments in green technologies, thus promoting sustainable economic development. Fintech's role in enhancing access to financial services and supporting environmentally friendly investments is highlighted. These results underscore the need for forward-looking policymaking in stimulating Fintech uptake as a way of facilitating both environmental and economic sustainability. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing robust empirical evidence of Fintech contribution to sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Hussain, Shahzad & Ur Rehman, Ajid & Affandi, Hina & Al-Faryan, Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh & Naifar, Nader, 2026. "Fintech, BigTech credit and sustainable development: International evidence," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 85(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:85:y:2026:i:c:s0160791x25003501
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2025.103160
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • E51 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Money Supply; Credit; Money Multipliers
    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors
    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development

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