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Digital Technologies and Sustainable Development: Evidence from FinTech, AI, and Blockchain Adoption in G20 Economies

Author

Listed:
  • Nesrine Gafsi

    (Department of Finance, College of Business, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia)

  • Amina Hamdouni

    (Department of Finance, College of Business, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia)

  • Aida Smaoui

    (Department of Finance, College of Business, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia)

Abstract

In the wake of rapid digital transformation, emerging technologies like FinTech, AI, and Blockchain are reimagining how countries pursue sustainable development. This study examines how FinTech adoption, Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness, and Blockchain activity influence sustainable development performance across G20 economies over the period 2015–2023. Drawing on Innovation-Driven Growth Theory, the Technology–Organization–Environment framework, and Institutional Theory, the analysis evaluates both the direct and complementary effects of these digital technologies on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) outcomes using cross-country panel data and key macroeconomic controls. The results show that FinTech, AI, and Blockchain each exert a positive and statistically significant impact on national sustainability performance, with AI exhibiting the strongest effect. Moreover, the findings reveal meaningful digital complementarities, indicating that coordinated adoption of these technologies amplifies sustainable development gains. Overall, the study provides robust macro-level evidence that digital transformation functions as a strategic driver of sustainability and offers policy-relevant insights for G20 governments seeking to accelerate inclusive, transparent, and environmentally responsible development.

Suggested Citation

  • Nesrine Gafsi & Amina Hamdouni & Aida Smaoui, 2026. "Digital Technologies and Sustainable Development: Evidence from FinTech, AI, and Blockchain Adoption in G20 Economies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-36, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:5:p:2484-:d:1877410
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    JEL classification:

    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General

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