Disruptive Innovation in the Middle Eastern FinTech Sector

Abstract

Building on prior suggestions concerning corporate resources as causes of disruptive innovation for increasing competitive advantage in developed economies, this research empirically re-investigated such assumptions in emerging markets. Through the theoretical lens of the resource-based perspective, the current research examined the perceived impacts of four different corporate resources (Financial, Human, Organizational, and Technological capital resources) on disruptive innovation that subsequently leads to increasing competitive advantage. A mixed-method design was utilized. The first study followed a quantitative approach (surveys; n= 154), whereas the second study followed a qualitative design (interviews; n= 16). Both studies targeted two different FinTech summits in the Middle East. This research delivered a new perspective and understanding concerning how Middle Eastern FinTechs perceive capital resources as causes of disruptive innovation for increasing competitive advantage.