Digital financial inclusion, environmental sustainability and regional economic growth in China: insights from a panel threshold model

Abstract As digital technologies rapidly transform global economies, the digital financial inclusion index (DFII) has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth, particularly in developing regions. In the context of China, where regional economic disparities persist, the expansion of digital financial services offers a promising avenue to boost regional development, promote inclusive growth, and enhance environmental sustainability. This study looks into how digital financial inclusion affects regional economic growth (GRP) in China’s provinces. It does this by using a panel threshold autoregressive model (PTAR) and a panel smooth transition autoregressive model (PSTAR) to see if the relationship is not…