What drives FinTech adoption? A multi-method evaluation using an adapted technology acceptance model

Considering the ubiquity of FinTech services, the study proposes a research framework to examine FinTech adoption and use from the technology acceptance perspective by adding sub-constructs of technology acceptance model (TAM), unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), ServPerf and WebQual 4.0. This study broadly classified these sub-constructs in three dimensions: adoption, behavior and technological and explores the relationship between these attributes. It also proposes that digital behavior (Internet experience and level of awareness) and demographic characteristics (age and gender) moderate the main relationships.

The measurement scale for the study is developed through iterative discussion with domain experts. The data are collected from 439 active Internet users though a digital survey and analysis were done by applying structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis.

Perceived usefulness and social influence are found to be the key determinant for behavior intention to use FinTech services, with social influence having significant negative influence. Actual use is significantly influenced by ease of use and social influence but is not determined by behavior intention and perceived usefulness. Behavioral attributes are significantly impacted by technological attributes and digital behavior. Also, age significantly affects the perception of security among older users.

This study will help FinTech service providers to design FinTech services considering a wide spectrum of users. More consideration should be on enhancing the usefulness and security features to create social affirmations for the use of FinTech services. This will entice users for frequent use and attract nonusers to do their first online financial transaction.

The study adds to the technology acceptance literature by incorporating relevant technological and behavioral attributes and investigating the moderating effect of digital behavior and demographic characteristics. It contributes to the understanding of user beliefs and perceptions about actual use of FinTech services.