Sustainable Fintech Adoption Drivers in India and Asia: Institutional Insights for Ethical Innovation from Delhi NCR via Structural Equation Modelling

This study empirically evaluates the effectiveness of third-party product sales (e.g., insurance, mutual funds, credit cards) through banking distribution channels in Delhi NCR, with a focus on retail consumer behavior. While banks increasingly rely on cross-selling third-party financial products to boost non-interest income, significant gaps persist in understanding consumer adoption drivers and barriers in urban Indian markets. The research employs a quantitative methodology based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), analyzing survey responses from 252 retail banking customers across Delhi NCR. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991) and Trust-Commitment Theory (Morgan & Hunt, 1994), the study examines how perceived value, trust, convenience, and social influence shape purchase intentions. Key findings reveal: Perceived Usefulness (PU) is the strongest predictor of adoption (β = 0.42, p < 0.01), confirming consumers prioritize functional benefits over ease of use (PEOU: β = 0.28). Trust in banks mediates 32% of purchase decisions, with relationship managers’ credibility being pivotal. Digital channels drive 68% of sales among younger demographics, though in-branch interactions remain critical for older customers. Mis-selling concerns (reported by 22% of respondents) and product complexity are key adoption barriers. This study contributes to literature by integrating trust metrics into TPB frameworks and providing Delhi NCR-specific insights for financial service design. Limitations include geographic focus on urban consumers, warranting future research in rural markets.

Purpose Rapid economic growth and technological advances have reshaped investing into highly accessible wealth-building. Generation Z (Gen Z)—raised in a globally connected, tech-driven society—is entering financial markets but often lacks a deep understanding of market mechanisms, investment principles, and risk management. This study examines how financial knowledge, awareness, and risk tolerance influence Gen Z’s investment decisions and evaluates the National Center for Financial Education’s (NCFE) role in fostering financial literacy among university students in Delhi NCR. Design/Methodology Primary data were collected via an online questionnaire from 365 university students born between 1996 and 2009, residing in Delhi NCR, assessing levels of financial knowledge, financial awareness, risk tolerance, and exposure to NCFE initiatives. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using SmartPLS was employed to test hypothesized relationships among these constructs and to measure the effectiveness of NCFE-driven financial education in shaping investment behaviors. Findings SEM results reveal greater financial knowledge and awareness significantly enhance risk tolerance, resulting in more informed investment decisions among Gen Z students. Participation in NCFE programs shows a positive effect on financial literacy metrics, indirectly boosting students’ confidence in managing investment risks. Gaps remain in understanding complex financial instruments and advanced risk-mitigation strategies, indicating that even with NCFE interventions, targeted educational efforts are still required. Originality/Value By focusing on a tech-savvy but under-explored demographic within the specific context of Delhi NCR, the research offers actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and financial institutions aiming to design tailored financial literacy programs that empower young adults to navigate today’s sophisticated investment landscape.

Purpose This study aims to identify the key factors affecting sustainable house adoption by Muslim civil servants in Ethiopia. These findings provide insights into how the income level, environmental awareness, sustainable land policy, security, and infrastructure of Muslim civil servants potentially influence housing adoption. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a quantitative approach. We used a technique called partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the data. The main exogenous variables in this study were income level, environmental awareness, government land policy, affordability, security and infrastructure. These were derived from existing theoretical frameworks of sustainable housing adoption. The researchers collected 370 structured questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale from a sample of civil servants to gather information on sustainable housing adoption in Ethiopia. Findings The results revealed that civil servants’ income levels, environmental awareness, government sustainable land policy, security, and infrastructure positively influenced sustainable housing adoption among Muslim civil servants in Ethiopia. Conversely, this study shows that affordability has a positive but insignificant effect on sustainable housing adoption by Muslim civil servants in Ethiopia. Practical implications The Federal Housing Corporation (FHC) and the Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure (MUDI) in Ethiopia collaborate with financial institutions to establish a Sharia-based formal housing finance system for Muslim civil servants. They also created a comprehensive framework for understanding the influencing factors, aiding the establishment of a formal sustainable housing finance system focusing on affordable and environmentally sustainable options, and promoting collaboration among various housing agencies for sustainable development. Originality/value To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to theoretically identify the drivers of sustainable housing adoption among Muslim civil servants in Ethiopia.

The successful implementation of digital transformation initiatives depends critically on public trust in experts guiding these processes. In today’s digital media environment, expert trust faces significant challenges, potentially hindering sustainable innovation adoption. This study investigates how expert credibility dimensions and information characteristics shape trust in digital transformation experts among Chinese social media users. We employed a mixed-methods approach combining a survey of 850 Chinese social media users, a quasi-experiment testing a digital expert verification feature, and secondary data analysis. The study measured multiple dimensions of expert trust while examining relationships with expert cognition factors and media usage variables through regression, mediation, and structural equation modeling. Expert trust in digital transformation exists at moderate levels (M = 6.82/10), with higher trust in digital innovation research (M = 7.12) than specific sustainability recommendations (M = 6.59). Expert authenticity emerged as the strongest predictor of trust (β = 0.27), followed by professional competence (β = 0.21). A “digital exposure paradox” emerged whereby higher volumes of expert information negatively predicted trust (β = −0.18), while information quality positively predicted trust (β = 0.25). The digital verification feature causally enhanced trust (DID = 0.57), with institutional sources strengthening trust while user-generated content diminished it. The findings reveal that digital transformation expert trust involves multi-dimensional evaluations beyond traditional credibility assessments. The “digital exposure paradox” suggests that prioritizing information quality over quantity, demonstrating expert authenticity, and implementing verification mechanisms can enhance trust and accelerate sustainable digital transformation adoption.

This research paper investigates the impact of social entrepreneurial initiatives implemented by Colleges and Universities on the utilization of digital technology, examining how this utilization, in turn, affects the learning process and the development of students' skill sets. It emphasises the pivotal role of such initiatives in higher education institutions. Various societies and cells have been established within universities, providing students with opportunities for community engagement and social service. The study highlights how integrating social entrepreneurial initiatives and digital technology in higher education institutions impacts the student’s skill development. The research collects data from students affiliated with these societies through a structured questionnaire encompassing inquiries related to social entrepreneurship, digital technology usage, skill development, and their influence on students’ assimilative capacity impacting higher education institutions. Responses from 203 university students from Delhi NCR, India, participating in these cells are analysed using structural equation modelling using AMOS Graphics. The findings indicate that students actively engaged in social entrepreneurial initiatives demonstrate an increased reliance on digital technology in multifaceted ways while fulfilling their responsibilities within the respective cells. This heightened use of digital technology contributes to the enhancement of students' skill sets, fostering a greater sense of social responsibility and ultimately facilitating improved academic performance. Further, the experiential knowledge and skills acquired through these initiatives empower students to excel based on their practical experiences, thereby advancing higher education institutions as a whole.

The construction industry is a major driver of economic growth but remains one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation, resource depletion, and carbon emissions. This study examines the key determinants influencing the adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria, focusing on environmental, economic, social, policy, and technological factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 construction professionals, and data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to establish causal relationships among the identified variables. The findings reveal that policy regulation (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), environmental factors (β = 0.42, p < 0.001), and climate change awareness (β = 0.38, p < 0.001) are the strongest predictors of sustainability adoption. The study also establishes that stakeholder collaboration mediates the relationship between policy regulation and sustainability adoption, while market demand for green buildings moderates the influence of economic feasibility. Despite increasing awareness of the benefits of sustainability, barriers such as high initial costs, weak regulatory enforcement, limited access to green financing, and slow technological adoption continue to hinder widespread implementation. The study underscores the need for robust policy enforcement, financial incentives, capacity-building programs, and the integration of smart construction technologies to drive sustainability adoption in Nigeria’s built environment. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers, offering a strategic framework to accelerate the transition toward climate-resilient, energy-efficient, and economically viable construction practices.

Earlier studies established the direct effect of the business model (BM) on financial performance and competitive advantage but this study attempts to examine the mediator role of competitive advantage on the association of business model and financial performance. Primary data is collected from 262 food small and medium enterprise (SMEs) in New Delhi NCR using well-designed questionnaire and data is analysis is done using SPSS 20 and AMOS 21. Structural equation model was adopted to explain the path analysis. The relationship between business model and competitive advantage; and the relationship between competitive advantage and financial performance are significant in indirect effect. It confirms the full mediation of competitive advantage between business model and financial performance. This study will contribute to the existing research on explanatory roles of business model and effect of the mediating role of competitive advantage. In further studies, business model and financial performance can be attempted as mediators.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of mobile customer relationship management (mCRM), service innovation (SI) and word of mouth (WOM) on the investment decisions (IDs) of mutual fund investors. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents a new model for impacting the IDs of mutual fund investors. To verify the suggested model, Partial Least Squares with Structural Equation Modelling are used. For analysis, a survey questionnaire is designed, and data inputs were invited from more than 400 online mutual fund investors in Delhi NCR. Findings The outcomes reveal that the ID of mutual fund investors is significantly influenced by WOM. WOM, in turn, is significantly impacted by mCRM applications through SI playing a mediating role. Research limitations/implications The limitation with reference to survey respondents was that only online mutual fund investors using mCRM applications were considered. Moreover, this study was conducted in Delhi NRC, and a limited sample was considered. Practical implications The result from this research helps the financial organisation to consider SI in their mCRM application as one of the main concerned areas for increased WOM that directly influences the ID of mutual fund investors. Originality/value This study highlighted the impact of SI and WOM on the mutual fund investors’ decision, who use mCRM application. The outcome may contribute to the theoretical framework of IDs concerning mCRM applications. The results of this research offer practical implications for financial organisations in strategising their marketing and product development plans in the context of mutual funds. Also, the mutual fund ID through mCRM application is positively influenced by SI and WOM using both constructs as sequential mediating tools. This research offers new insights into mCRM application for mutual fund investors and financial organisations in India.

This research endeavors to analyze the impact of sustainability practices (SP) on the revisit intentions (RVI) and recommendation intentions (RCI) of young professionals staying in budget hotels through the mediating effect of guest comfort (GC). The study also examines the moderating role of technology readiness (TR) of the guest on the proposed relationships. Data were collected from 505 young Indian professionals working in service sectors located in Chandigarh Tri-city and Delhi NCR (India) and who travel for work and stay at mid-priced hotels. The structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was used to analyze the proposed hypotheses. The results show that SP has a positive impact on GC, RVI, and RCI. Further, GC has positive impact on RVI and RCI. The results also show that TR moderates the relationship between SP and GC. Finally, the relationship between GC and RCI is also moderated by TR. Customers’ RVI and RCI are not only created when hotels incorporate SP but also when the degree of GC is not compromised but enhanced. In this way, it is recommended that managers carefully use the SP as an important tool to raise the level of GC. The study reveals that young professionals tend to have strong RVI and RCI toward such hotels, which have implemented technology and SP in the hotel operations while maintaining the GC level. In this sense, the SP implemented by the hotels acts as a strategic tool in the creation of GC, RVI, and RCI.

This study aimed to investigate the metacognitive thinking skills among engineering students and explore the influence of age and gender on these skills. The Metacognitive Thinking Skills Scale developed by (Tuncer & Kaysi, 2013) was used to assess four dimensions: thinking skills, reflective skills towards problem-solving, decision-making, and alternative skills of evaluation. A sample of 270 engineering students from private colleges in Delhi NCR was taken for study. The research data was analyzed using IBM SPSS 26 and Smart PLS 4. The questionnaire demonstrated good reliability, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.891. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, discriminant validity analysis, and structural equation modelling. The results showed that age had a significant positive impact on alternative skills of evaluation, decision-making skills, thinking skills, and reflective skills towards problem-solving among engineering students. However, gender had a minimal effect on these cognitive constructs with a slight impact on decision-making skills. The findings suggest that age plays a crucial role in the development of metacognitive thinking skills among engineering students, while gender differences are relatively insignificant in this context. Implications include educational interventions for fostering metacognitive thinking skills among engineering students.

Financial decision-making among women is a crucial factor in promoting sustainable investment and economic resilience.This study examines how financial literacy, investment experience, and socio-economic factors influence women's ability to make mindful and sustainable investment decisions in Delhi NCR.By analyzing key determinants and barriers, the research aims to propose strategies for fostering financial inclusion, resilience, and sustainable value creation among women investors.This study employs a mixed-method research approach, integrating quantitative surveys (n=373) and qualitative interviews (n=12) with women investors, financial advisors, and policymakers.The research framework is grounded in behavioral finance theories and financial literacy models, assessing their impact on sustainable investment choices.Data is analyzed using regression analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM), and thematic analysis to evaluate the interplay of literacy, experience, and socio-economic variables on women's financial behavior.Preliminary findings suggest that women with higher financial literacy and investment experience are more likely to adopt sustainable and diversified investment portfolios.However, socioeconomic barriers, including income disparities, family influence, and limited access to financial education, constrain mindful investment decisions.The study identifies the role of fintech solutions, government initiatives, and policy-driven financial inclusion in empowering women toward long-term wealth creation.The study offers policy recommendations for financial institutions, government bodies, and fintech startups to develop gender-inclusive investment models.It highlights the need for targeted financial literacy programs, digital investment platforms, and regulatory support to bridge gender gaps in investment.By integrating sustainability principles into women's financial decision-making, this research

Purpose Higher education institutions (HEI) are crucial in establishing the foundation for sustainable development. Academic faculty and institutional leaders are considered the key educators, shaping students who are viewed as future leaders. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between HEI leadership, sustainability policy, sustainable practices and green behaviour of students. It also examines the mediating role of sustainability policy in the relationship between HEI leadership and green behaviour of students. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a quantitative exploratory research approach. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey among 503 undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in full-time degree programs in select universities located in Delhi NCR. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses. Findings The results found that HEI leadership significantly influenced sustainability policy and the implementation of sustainable practices within universities. Additionally, sustainability policy was found to mediate the relationship between HEI leadership and sustainable practices. The integration of sustainable practices in HEI is seen to foster the development of green behaviour among students. The findings are interpreted through the lens of conservation of resource theory and theory of planned behaviour. Practical implications The study suggests that adopting and implementing sustainable practices can help students develop environmental awareness. Students transform to become environmentally conscious citizens who can drive sustainable initiatives and contribute towards global environmental goals. Originality/value This study is the first to investigate the relationship between HEI leadership, sustainability policy, sustainable practices and green behaviour of students. It provides pioneer empirical evidence that can guide leaders in implementing sustainable initiatives, promoting responsible resource use and fostering a sustainability-focused culture.

Social media, unlike other resources, is nowadays an organizational resource. The reason can be attributed to its vast and extensive usage in sharing relevant information within a group and its influence on communication and organizational dynamics. The study investigates the role of individual social media self-efficacy (SMSE) and social media participation (SMP) on E-Leadership self-efficacy (ELSE). It further explores the mediating role of individual social media collective efficacy (SMCE) and SMP on SMSE and ELSE. Data for the study were collected from the employees of ITES firms in Delhi NCR, Bengaluru and Pune, India by the online survey method. A total of 478 respondents who were actively engaged in social media activities such as sending and sharing relevant information on different social media groups were included. Structural Equation Modelling followed by mediation analysis was conducted using AMOS 22 and Process Macro software, respectively, to analyse the structural and mediation relationship among the different constructs. The findings confirmed the positive influence of SMSE and participation on collective efficacy and e-leadership efficacy. The study extends the current literature and integrates social media self, collective efficacy, and participation to investigate ELSE in the perspective of IT organizations.

This paper analyses the impact of SERVQUAL on overall satisfaction and brand loyalty in the healthcare industry. SERVQUAL is a standard instrument consisting of five dimensions namely reliability, empathy, responsiveness, tangibility and assurance for measuring functional service quality. The study has been initiated by conducting a survey of various hospitals of Delhi NCR. A conceptual model is designed and confirmatory test of the model is done by using the confirmatory factor analysis technique. Structural equation modelling (SEM) using AMOS 4.0, a software program is used to analyse the causal relationship between SERVQUAL, overall satisfaction and brand loyalty. The outcome arrives that SERVQUAL has a positive effect on overall satisfaction and overall satisfaction also has a positive effect on brand loyalty.

PurposeThis study aims to examine the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in forming a brand image and word of mouth (WOM) in the hotel industry in India. This study proposed a framework for examining the influence of CSR activities on self-congruence and the brand attitudes and indirect effects on consumer brand image and WOM in the hospitality industry in India.Design/methodology/approachA self-administered questionnaire is used to collect the data from the hotel guests staying in four five-star hotels in the Delhi NCR. The structural equation modelling was used for the empirical data analysis using AMOS 23.0.FindingsThe findings suggest that CSR, directly and indirectly, influences the brand image and WOM. The present study confirms CSR’s indirect effects on brand image and WOM.Originality/valueThe findings from this study will help companies design customer-driven, socially responsible activities. In the context of hotels, a mechanism based on social exchange suggests that CSR activities signal to consumers that the hotel supports society’s well-being; thus, the customers feel obliged to reciprocate the action by having a positive WOM and brand image. Therefore, hotel firms benefit from their socially responsible activities by having a positive attitude, self-congruence and WOM.