Pathways to Sustainable Digital Financial Inclusion: Investigating Critical Factors in Emerging Economies

Economic development and inequality reduction in emerging economies are transformed by digital financial inclusion (DFI). To address financial exclusion, inadequate connectivity, and digital illiteracy, DFI factors must be understood as digital platforms become more popular. This study examines DFI's main causes, including ease of use, usefulness, trust and security, saving habits, internet availability, unwillingness to adapt, and perceived complexity. Based on a structured survey and 462 replies, the study uses Binary Logistic Regression (BLR) to forecast digital financial adoption. The results show that trust and security, ease of use, and usefulness drive digital financial adoption, but perceived complexity and change aversion inhibit inclusivity. Financial inclusion also relied on saving and internet connection. The findings suggest streamlined platforms, strong cybersecurity, and expanded digital infrastructure. This report helps policymakers and stakeholders create inclusive financial environments. The research shows that DFI can assist sustainable development, reduce poverty, and minimize gender gaps, contributing to economic resilience and equity by tackling these barriers and leveraging enablers.