“I intend to pay zakat on cryptocurrencies (CCs) but…”: an empirical analysis of CCs holders

Purpose This study aims to investigate the intentions of Muslim cryptocurrency (CC) holders to fulfil their zakat obligations on digital assets, exploring the unique motivations and barriers within this emerging financial landscape. Design/methodology/approach The research uses a quantitative approach and a cross-sectional research design through online surveys, using purposive sampling to gather data from Muslim CC holders. The integrated model, known as the theory of planned behaviour and social cognitive theory (TPB-SCT) model, is used to comprehensively analyse the key factors influencing intentions to pay zakat on cryptocurrencies (CCs). Findings The study reveals that attitude towards zakat on CCs and perceived behavioural control regarding zakat on CCs have a significant and positive effect on the intention to pay. In contrast, subjective norms show no significant influence. CCs-related financial risk exerts a negative impact on intention. Moreover, CCs-related zakat knowledge and adherence to Shariah compliance are strongly associated with intention. These findings provide insights into the intricate dynamics of religious compliance within the evolving realm of digital assets. Practical implications Outcomes offer profound indications to stakeholders, including financial institutions, zakat agencies, policymakers and the community, on how to integrate zakat into this new and rapidly evolving financial paradigm like CC. Originality/value A pioneering effort was made in this study by exploring the intentions of Muslim CC holders to fulfil zakat obligations, bridging a significant gap in the existing literature. Developing and validating an integrated model of TPB-SCT in the realm of zakat on CC enriches the literature with a novel theoretical framework.