Examining the impact of perceived usefulness on micro-entrepreneurs' intentions to use Fintech peer to peer lending applications with perceived security as a mediating factor

The rapid growth of financial technology (Fintech) has revolutionized access to financial services, particularly for microentrepreneurs, who face difficulties accessing traditional banking services. In Indonesia, the increasing popularity of fintech peer-to-peer (P2P) lending provides an alternative funding source for these entrepreneurs. However, despite its potential, the adoption of fintech P2P lending platforms remains limited. This study examines the relationships among perceived usefulness, perceived security, and the intention to use fintech applications, with perceived security serving as a mediating variable. Employing an explanatory research design, the study targeted microentrepreneurs in Indonesia who have yet to adopt fintech P2P lending platforms. Data were gathered from 204 respondents through offline questionnaires and analyzed via partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that perceived usefulness significantly and positively influences both perceived security and the intention to use fintech applications. Additionally, Perceived Security significantly impacts Intention to Use and mediates the relationship between Perceived Usefulness and Intention to Use. These results highlight the critical roles of perceived usefulness and security in encouraging the adoption of fintech P2P lending platforms among microentrepreneurs. The study suggests that fintech providers should focus on enhancing both the perceived benefits and the security of their platforms to drive broader adoption. In addition, policymakers and regulators should implement policies that boost trust and awareness of fintech security protocols, which can also stimulate its adoption. By providing empirical evidence on the most significant determinants of fintech adoption, this research contributes to the broader literature on financial inclusion and technology acceptance. The results can assist fintech developers, financial institutions, and regulators in formulating strategies that encourage fintech adoption among microentrepreneurs, which can eventually contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion in Indonesia. This research provides valuable insights into the factors influencing fintech adoption in the microentrepreneur sector in Indonesia.