Green growth through fintech innovation

This study explores the impact of financial technology (fintech) on sustainable economic development in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Employing a longitudinal design, the research examines how fintech infrastructures, such as automated teller machines (ATMs), Secure Internet Servers, and the Findex Index, influence the green growth index (GGI). The findings indicate that secure internet servers positively impact green growth, whereas ATMs have a nuanced effect, potentially hindering sustainability under specific conditions. The findex index, a composite measure of financial inclusion, shows a robust positive relationship with GGI, underscoring the importance of financial inclusivity in promoting sustainable development. These results extend the dynamic capabilities theory, illustrating fintech's role in fostering adaptability and innovation in the financial sector. The study's implications for policymakers in the MENA region emphasise the need for robust digital infrastructure, supportive regulatory frameworks, and education on fintech's benefits for achieving sustainability goals. Future research should expand the range of fintech-related variables, incorporate qualitative studies, conduct comparative regional analyses, and focus on longitudinal impacts to better understand fintech's potential in driving sustainable development.