Enhancing Sustainable Economic Development through Shariah-Compliant Fintech Innovations: A Jurisprudential Analysis of Mobile Banking in Bangladesh

Abstract: Mobile banking in Bangladesh is an innovative solution to the gap between banks and people. As fintech solutions, especially those involving mobile banking, proliferate in modern times, it becomes necessary to examine the potential of these solutions to help enhance sustainable economic development while adhering to Shariah law. This research examines the compliance of mobile banking innovation with Shariah principles. More specifically, it explores the juristic aspects of Islamic finance. Through the study, Shariah-compliant fintech models can facilitate access to financial services for marginalised communities in Bangladesh. Overall, these financial products can make a significant contribution to Bangladesh's economic development. After carefully reviewing the laws, the study in the paper examines the compatibility of m-banking with several essential Shariah principles, including fairness, transparency, risk sharing, prohibition of riba (interest), and others. The study highlights the regulatory issues and legal consequences of employing fintech innovation within the framework of Islamic finance, particularly in the social and economic context of Bangladesh. In addition, the agreement focused on the challenges of ensuring Shariah compliance in an era when new financial products and services have emerged that classical scholars never anticipated. Mobile banking can be a means to promote financial inclusion in Bangladesh for unbanked and underbanked individuals, including rural populations and women, the paper notes. The paper proposes a method to integrate Shariah-compliant mobile banking services that cater to the innovative needs of fintech. Furthermore, it suggests a framework that explores the Islamic ethical and moral requirements that can serve the purposes of the fintech innovations. The final recommendation will be directed to policymakers, regulators, and fintech companies on how to enhance the inclusivity and ethics of the mobile banking ecosystem in Bangladesh. The recommendations include the formulation of robust regulations, enhanced Shariah governance mechanisms, and the development of innovative financial products that align with Shariah principles and the global Sustainable Development Goals. The objective of this paper is to promote the development of mobile banking through Shariah-compliant fintech innovations, fostering sustainable economic growth in Bangladesh. This will add to the increasing discourse on how Islamic finance can be a force for good.