Abstract

The digital revolution has significantly transformed the landscape of financial services in emerging economies. This paper investigates the extent to which digital financial inclusion (DFI) contributes to economic growth by enabling broader access to financial services through digital platforms such as mobile money, internet banking, and FinTech applications. Using data from multiple emerging markets over the period of 2015–2022, we conduct a comparative cross-country analysis to measure the relationship between DFI indicators and macroeconomic performance. The study finds that increased access to digital financial services correlates strongly with improvements in GDP per capita, employment generation, and entrepreneurial activity. The analysis also sheds light on the challenges of infrastructure limitations, regulatory disparities, and financial illiteracy. Ultimately, the study proposes strategic interventions that can help scale digital financial access, especially among marginalized populations, to sustain inclusive economic growth.

Keywords

Digital Financial Inclusion, Economic Growth, Emerging Markets, Mobile Money, FinTech, Financial Literacy, GDP, Cross-Country Analysis.

Conclusion

Digital financial inclusion is not just a technological shift; it is a socio-economic revolution that holds the potential to transform lives and stimulate national development. This research confirms that countries that effectively leverage digital tools to expand financial access experience faster and more inclusive economic growth. As emerging markets continue to evolve, digital finance will remain central to their development narratives. To ensure sustained impact, stakeholders must focus on building inclusive ecosystems, reducing digital divides, and fostering innovation that benefits all layers of society.

References

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