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Analysis of mobile fintech adoption based on perceived value and risk theory: findings from PLS-SEM and fsQCA

Author

Listed:
  • Na Wei

    (Shandong Xiehe University)

  • Yikai Liang

    (Shandong University of Finance and Economics)

  • Haiqing Wang

    (Shandong Xiehe University)

  • Mengqing Liu

    (Shandong University of Finance and Economics)

Abstract

The rapid evolution of the financial sector, driven by fintech innovations underscores the importance of understanding the factors influencing mobile fintech adoption, especially in light of privacy and security concerns that hinder user acceptance. This study bridges a gap in the existing literature by proposing an integrated model synthesising perceived value and risk theories, offering a comprehensive framework for analysing mobile fintech adoption. Employing a dual-method approach that integrates Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), this study empirically investigates the interplay of various value and risk factors affecting adoption intentions among Chinese users. The PLS-SEM results reveal that the integrated model substantially enhances explanatory power, accounting for 46.27% of the variance in mobile fintech adoption. Utilitarian value, social value, performance risk, and time risk show statistically significant net effects on adoption. The fsQCA results identify seven distinct configurations associated with high-level mobile fintech adoption, and eight causal paths giving rise to its negation, highlighting the complexity of decision-making processes in this context. These findings have significant implications for both academic discourse and practical applications, advocating for the adoption of multifactorial frameworks in future studies to enhance understanding of technology acceptance in dynamic environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Na Wei & Yikai Liang & Haiqing Wang & Mengqing Liu, 2025. "Analysis of mobile fintech adoption based on perceived value and risk theory: findings from PLS-SEM and fsQCA," Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-22, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-05142-x
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05142-x
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