Sustainable finance and social development: do institutional quality and ICT infrastructure matter

The link between social sustainability and sustainable finance has drawn considerable scholarly attention due to its significance in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among the critical enablers for achieving these goals are strong institutional frameworks and robust ICT infrastructure. This study examines the effectiveness of sustainable finance in promoting social sustainability, with particular emphasis on the moderating roles of institutional quality and ICT infrastructure. Using the PMG-ARDL model, the study analyses panel data from G20 and non-G20 countries spanning 2000-2020. Findings reveal that both green and social finance are key drivers of social sustainability. However, the interaction between ICT and the social finance-social sustainability nexus diminishes its effectiveness in both G20 and non-G20 contexts, as disadvantaged groups often face barriers to accessing digital financial services, limiting the benefits of social finance. Institutional quality amplifies the positive impact of social finance on social sustainability across all countries studied.