Evolution, acceptance, and adaptation of Fintech: A road map towards sustainable development

Introduction: Fintech, an acronym for Financial Technology, refers to companies offering financial services through innovative technology, such as web platforms and mobile applications, benefiting individuals and businesses. The evolution of Fintech is characterized by rapid technological development and the proliferation of startups. In Latin America, the sector is growing significantly, with key markets like Mexico and Brazil, offering new opportunities to improve financial inclusion, a fundamental aspect for economic and social development.Objective: To characterize Fintech as an innovative component in the financial sector.Methods: A literature review was conducted by consulting databases such as PubMed and ResearchGate, selecting 17 articles mainly from the last five years. Relevant information was extracted to develop this research.Discussion: Since 2014, Fintech has transformed the global financial sector, gaining regulatory and market prominence. It improves efficiency and accessibility but still depends on trust in intermediaries for electronic payments, posing risks that could be mitigated with technologies like blockchain. Fintech competes and collaborates with traditional banks using technologies such as artificial intelligence. However, its growth presents regulatory and consumer protection challenges. Generational and digital gaps also limit adoption.Conclusions: Fintech is an innovative pillar that enhances accessibility, efficiency, and financial inclusion, especially in Latin America. Regulatory, security, and generational challenges require attention to ensure safe and equitable adoption. Regulation and financial education are key to maximizing benefits and promoting economic and social development

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the critical goals for every country in the world. A stable global financial system is needed these days to satisfy its duty to boost private capital mobilization to achieve sustainable development and steady economic growth. However, several obstacles limiting such financial mobilization have been identified by scholars, practitioners, and standard setters. In recent times digital transformation and advancement, specifically in the finance sector, include a wide range of technological developments, and applications such as blockchain, the Internet of things, big data, and artificial intelligence are promised to enhance performance in the financial sector. The potential of digital applications in the finance sector to resolve critical obstacles in financing for inclusive and sustainable growth becomes evident. Financial inclusion is indisputably one of the most significant processes towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and FinTech is one of the best methods for these goals to be accomplished. The Fintech industry in India is rapidly expanding and the purpose of this paper is to discuss issues such as fintech drivers, shortcomings of traditional financial services, and the role of technological advancement. The paper also addresses issues relating to fintech investment and disturbance. Financial technology faces challenges such as investment management, customer management, and regulation. The paper examines the evolution of fintech in the banking sector over time. But as we are aware a country like India lacks proper infrastructure and management and the objectives of banking can’t not be attained easily. All the issues and challenges faced by the government and financial institutions have been discussed in this paper along with the important and different strategies adopted by them. The study is based on secondary data and a literature review. India has surpassed the global fintech adoption rate to promote financial transactions with the help of technology. Demonetisation and implementation of the GST (goods and services tax) have also played a major role in the adoption of financial technologies among the masses. Also, the announcement made by the government in 2017 to decrease the amount of paper currency in circulation has elevated its awareness. Blockchain is another financial technology that is being used in the industry. Out of the total “fintech” technologies, blockchain was developed for finance which is directly connected to financial institutions. The main aim of Blockchain in financial services is decentralization where we do not trust a third party to execute transactions. It includes services such as transferring funds between banks and companies. While trading in capital markets, innovative electronic trading platforms facilitate online trade and real-time transfers. Trading networks allow investors to observe the trading behavior of their peers and expert traders and to follow their investment strategies on currency exchange and capital markets. These platforms require either very little or no knowledge about financial markets. An automated financial advisor provides financial advice or online investment management with moderate minimal human intervention.

The term "digital transformation" describes how digital technologies are incorporated into every aspect of governance, business, and society, radically altering how companies function and provide value. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) list several global difficulties that the world must overcome, and digital transformation is a key factor in advancing these goals. This study examines how digital technologies, including cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), can help achieve the SDGs. Several SDG targets are being directly addressed by the growing use of digital tools to increase accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability in important industries like infrastructure, healthcare, education, and energy. The study emphasizes how digital solutions improve healthcare delivery (SDG 3) through telemedicine and AI-based diagnostics, provide access to high-quality education (SDG 4) through e-learning platforms, and reduce poverty (SDG 1) through financial inclusion. Additionally, it looks at how breakthroughs like smart grids and renewable energy technologies encourage the use of clean energy (SDG 7) and how digital solutions in infrastructure and industries (SDG 9) support innovation and sustainable growth. The study also addresses the difficulties associated with digital transformation, including the need for supportive legislative frameworks, the digital divide, infrastructure constraints, and cybersecurity issues. In the end, the report makes the case that, even while digital transformation has enormous potential to hasten the SDGs' achievement, it is imperative to remove obstacles to its broad acceptance. To make sure that digital transformation promotes fair and sustainable growth for everybody, it urges international cooperation, investments in digital skills, and the creation of inclusive, progressive policies.

Digital transformation became defining factor in development of modern society and economy. It integrated technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT), fundamentally changing ways in which businesses, governments, and citizens interacted. Amid global challenges — climate change, social inequality, and economic instability — sustainable development emerged as priority for all nations. Digital transformation offered unique opportunities for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by United Nations, providing tools for effective management of resources, enhancing social inclusion, and minimising impact on surrounding environment. Therefore, study of impact of digital technologies, particularly AI, on promoting sustainable development at both national and global levels, was undoubtedly relevant. Based on results of existing research, analysis was conducted of how digital transformation contributed to economic growth, social integration, and environmental sustainability through optimisation of business processes, management models, and societal interactions. In particular, key questions of research became: theoretical foundations of digital transformation and its connection with strategies of sustainable development; qualitative assessment of impact of AI and digital technologies on functioning in various sectors of economy with presentation of case studies demonstrating positive effects of AI on sustainable development in ICT, economy, and business; discussion of challenges and risks associated with implementation of digital technologies, including ethical and legal considerations; development of recommendations for advancing digital transformation while adhering to principles of sustainability; examination of ethical implications of implementing tools of AI and digital technologies in context of sustainable development, with focus on ensuring fair access and minimising potential harm; determination of role of political frameworks and regulatory mechanisms in promoting sustainable digital transformation in various sectors.

Abstract: As the world moves towards digital transformation and sustainable development, the concept of Smart Villages is revolutionizing rural communities by leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bridge the urban-rural divide. "Smart Villages: IoT and AI for Sustainable Rural Development" explores how cutting-edge technologies are transforming agriculture, healthcare, energy management, education, and governance in rural areas. The book examines AI-driven precision farming, IoT-powered smart irrigation, AI-based telemedicine, renewable energy microgrids, and blockchain-enabled governance as key enablers for sustainable rural development. It highlights the role of digital connectivity, real-time data analytics, and AI-driven decision-making in optimizing resource allocation, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic resilience. The book also delves into policy frameworks, investment strategies, and global initiatives that support scalable and replicable Smart Village models. Through real-world case studies, expert insights, and technological advancements, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for policymakers, researchers, technology developers, and entrepreneurs seeking to implement smart and inclusive rural transformation. Keywords: Smart Villages, IoT in rural development, AI for sustainable agriculture, precision farming, smart irrigation, AI-driven telemedicine, remote healthcare, wearable health sensors, renewable energy microgrids, smart energy management, blockchain in rural governance, digital rural transformation, AI in education, rural connectivity, fintech for rural development, AI-powered decision-making, smart supply chains, predictive analytics in farming, AI and IoT integration, sustainable rural development, cloud computing in rural areas, AI-powered infrastructure, digital inclusion, rural economic resilience, data-driven agriculture, smart public services.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be seen as the critical goal for every country in the world. In this vein, a stable global financial system is needed these days to satisfy its duty to boost the private capital mobilisation to achieve sustainable development and steady economic growth. Nevertheless, several obstacles limiting such financial mobilisation have been identified by scholars, practitioners, and standard setters. Recently, digital transformation and advancement, specifically in the finance sector, include a wide range of technological developments, and applications such as blockchain, internet of things, big data, artificial intelligence are promised to enhance performance in the financial sector. The potential of digital applications in the finance sector to resolve critical obstacles in financing for inclusive and sustainable growth becomes evident. This chapter aims to provide a summary and a detailed discussion of the latest developments in financial technologies that both facilitate the SDGs and also contribute to future sustainable international business.

I. Abstract The implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies in the manufacturing sector has opened up new pathways for sustainability by improving resource efficiency and minimizing waste. The emergence of cyber-physical systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and digital twins supports the development of intelligent and sustainable manufacturing practices. This research synthesizes key insights from existing literature to propose a comprehensive framework aimed at waste reduction and resource efficiency in manufacturing through the application of Industry 4.0. The literature suggests that digital transformation is instrumental in facilitating lean manufacturing, circular economy practices, and sustainable waste management. Hybrid multi-criteria decision-making methodologies, smart factory frameworks, and machine learning-based predictive models have demonstrated enhancements in productivity, reductions in waste, and improvements in environmental sustainability. Case studies spanning various industries, from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to large-scale manufacturing, highlight the role of Industry 4.0 in optimizing supply chains, conserving energy, and enhancing overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Despite these advancements, challenges such as high implementation costs, lack of standardization, and environmental concerns regarding Industry 4.0 technologies persist. Addressing these challenges necessitates a structured roadmap that incorporates lean methodologies, circular economy principles, and sustainable innovation. The findings of this study provide practical recommendations for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers to harness the potential of Industry 4.0 for sustainable manufacturing. Through the utilization of smart automation, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative digital ecosystems, the manufacturing sector can significantly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while maintaining competitiveness in the global market. Future research should focus on overcoming barriers to adoption and refining frameworks for the seamless integration of Industry 4.0 in sustainability-focused manufacturing. Keywords: Industry 4.0, sustainable manufacturing, resource efficiency, waste reduction, cyber-physical systems, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, big data analytics, digital twins, lean manufacturing, circular economy, smart factory, predictive models, environmental sustainability, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), data-driven decision making, manufacturing innovation, digital transformation

To Achieve a Sustainable Blue Future, Progress Assessments Must Include Interdependencies between the Sustainable Development Goals

Objective: This study aims to thoroughly explore the relationship between virtual humans in museums and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on how virtual humans contribute to achieving SDGs in terms of cultural education, resource optimization, and social inclusion. Method: This study uses multiple research methods to explore how virtual human technology in museums advances Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A literature review summarizes research on virtual human technology and museum digitalization. A multiple-case study analyzes projects like the Shanghai Museum’s virtual guide "Xiao Ke," the Bay Area Museum’s "Ling Meixiang," and the National Museum of China’s "Ai Wenwen." These cases are chosen based on their integration with exhibitions, unique IP character design, and contributions to SDGs. Qualitative content analysis evaluates their roles in cultural dissemination and resource optimization, highlighting the connections between virtual human technology and SDGs. This provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for museums' digital transformation and sustainable development. Results and Discussion: Virtual humans in museums significantly contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enhancing education, sustainability, and inclusivity. For SDG 4, they provide multilingual, immersive learning experiences that transcend geographical barriers, benefiting underserved regions through virtual museum tours and online education. Regarding SDG 12, virtual exhibits reduce physical resource consumption, enabling cost-effective cultural services even for smaller museums with limited budgets. In support of SDG 16, virtual humans recreate diverse historical narratives, fostering cultural understanding and inclusivity while amplifying the voices of marginalized groups. These technologies showcase the transformative potential of digital tools in cultural preservation and education. As advancements in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality continue, virtual humans are expected to further enhance audience engagement, cultural dissemination, and sustainable societal development. Originality/Value: This study aims to reveal, through an analysis of typical virtual human projects, how virtual humans contribute to quality education, responsible consumption, and production, and enhanced social inclusion, thereby providing a sustainable development path for the integration of cultural dissemination and digital technology. Furthermore, the paper will propose corresponding strategies and recommendations regarding the application status and future development of virtual human technology in museums, with the hope of providing valuable references for the digital transformation and sustainable development of museums..

This study explores the intersection of sustainable and green tourism with 17 United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs), identifying key themes and emerging interdisciplinary configurations. Using the PRISMA framework, we analyzed publications covering the years 2015–2023. A machine learning-based BERTopic model was employed to extract meaningful topics and map publications to the relevant SDGs. This study reveals a strong link between sustainable tourism and multiple SDGs. Seven key themes illustrate the role of sustainable tourism in fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and community resilience. Geotourism and geoheritage development contribute to quality education (SDG 4) by promoting geological knowledge and conservation while generating local economic opportunities. The tourism-energy-economy nexus highlights the need for clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13) to mitigate emissions linked to tourism-driven economic expansion. Mangrove ecosystem ecotourism management safeguards biodiversity and strengthens life below water (SDG 14) and life on land (SDG 15) while supporting sustainable livelihoods. Rural and smart data-driven tourism enhance decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) by integrating technology and local resources into sustainable development strategies. Ecotourism and community engagement empower local populations, fostering sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17) through collaborative conservation efforts. Finally, eco-destinations and tourist engagement emphasize responsible consumption and cultural heritage preservation, reinforcing responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). Together, these themes underscore tourism’s broader role in achieving the SDGs by balancing economic benefits with environmental and social sustainability. Our findings add to policy-making and strategic planning, emphasizing the need for a more subtle approach to sustainable tourism, considering diverse regional contexts. Future research should focus on applying technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and big data, conducting in-depth case studies, examining socioeconomic impacts on local communities, and evaluating policy effectiveness to increase its contribution to achieving the SDGs.Clinical trial registration: Not applicable.

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals Requires Transdisciplinary Innovation at the Local Scale

Background: The influence of AI and Big Data on the healthcare sector and health delivery systems provides a hopeful path to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by way of improved decision-making and operational efficiencies. Methodology: A review of existing literature was carried out to evaluate the current landscape of AI applications in healthcare and its potential implications for SDG achievement. Results: Big data is at the center of health transformation, which, combined with artificial intelligence and Internet of Things, enables real-time processing and analysis of huge datasets. Big data enhances customization in marketing, streamlines operations in manufacturing and redefines healthcare by means of precision medicine. Big data also helps to drive changes in society through better public policy choices and steps taken to ensure sustainable development. It is through its analytic power that big data can identify obscure patterns and insights which can lead to pioneering solutions and strategic growth. Conclusion: Applying big data and AI strategically plays a crucial role in advancing the sustainable development agenda. However, we must exercise responsibility when utilizing the power of data. It is important to enforce strict measures of protecting data so as to avoid its misuse and also empower underdeveloped regions with relevant tools and capabilities for efficient data management. This way proactive moves will make sure that all people benefit from the information revolution, and it helps to drive global progress on SDGs.

Every nation in the world is striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In keeping with this, a sound global financial system is now required to fulfill its mandate to encourage the mobilization of private capital for the achievement of sustainable development and consistent economic growth. The fintech revolution has significantly altered the financial industry and improved financial inclusion in the nation by offering digital financial services. Fintech has contributed positively to the SDGs by providing increased access to funds and financial services, which, in turn, has resulted in improvised saving opportunities for a large group of people. A wide range of application developments, comprising blockchain, IoT (the Internet of Things), AI (artificial intelligence), big data, and mobile platforms, have recently been part of digital transformation and technological advancement, particularly in the finance sector. These application developments promised to improve performance in the financial sector. It becomes clear that financial applications for digital technology can overcome significant funding challenges for inclusive and sustainable growth. In this scenario, the chapter provides an overview and in-depth examination of the most recent advancements in financial technologies (Fintech) that support the SDGs. It also reviews the significance and effectiveness of fintech in achieving sustainable development goals like education, health, equality, etc.

Constructing a standard system of city sustainable development assessment technology based on the SDGs

The present study is relevant in the context of the formation of the digital management concept Smart City 3.0 in the context of sustainable green development goals. These goals are to be achieved by combining digitalisation technologies with the principles of environmental sustainability. The purpose of the study is to determine the conditions for the formation of a digital concept of city management 3.0 in the context of sustainable development goals. Research objectives: 1) to study the concept of the digital concept of city management or Smart City and the conditions for its implementation; 2) to reveal the concept of Smart City 3.0 development in the context of foreign experience; 3) to reveal the essence and significance of the concept of environmental sustainability of smart Smart City 3.0 and the promotion of sustainable green development. The research methodology is a systematic, cross-cultural, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex impact of digital technologies on all aspects of sustainable development in digital green smart cities 3.0, in particular on the economic, social and environmental dimensions. It allows for the interaction between digital innovations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be considered in a single structure. The Smart City 3.0 concept views the city as an integrated ecosystem. This approach ensures efficient infrastructure management and also helps to reduce environmental impact, improve the quality of life of citizens, and engage them in decision-making. The article examines the pivotal elements of the Smart City 3.0 concept, encompassing the deployment of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and automated systems to enhance the urban environment. It has been demonstrated that the implementation of these technologies can result in a notable reduction in energy consumption, the optimisation of traffic flows, a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and an enhancement of the environmental sustainability of the city. The study analyses the global exemplars of digital urban management, identifies opportunities and challenges for the development of Ukrainian cities in the direction of smart and green management, and offers recommendations for their adaptation based on global experience.