The Moderating Role of Fintech App Usage in Lower-Income Households in Malaysia: A Financial Well-Being Roadmap

The Moderating Role of Fintech App Usage in Lower-Income Households in Malaysia: A Financial Well-Being Roadmap

In Malaysia, the B40 group represents households with a monthly income below MYR4,850 (USD1,093), constituting the lowest 40% of earners facing economic challenges. Amid rising living costs and employment instability, managing finances becomes crucial. Fintech apps, known for accessibility and convenience, offer various financial services. A cluster sampling strategy was used to identify 1,948 B40 households from across Peninsular and East Malaysia to serve as the study's sample population. The data was obtained through a cross-sectional study then scrutinised via SEM-PLS. This study aims to determine factors such as locus of control, financial knowledge, and financial behaviour concerning the usage of fintech apps that impact the financial well-being of Malaysian B40 households. The study findings indicate a significant positive correlation between an individual's Financial Knowledge and Locus of Control toward Malaysia B40 Financial Well-Being. The study suggests that Financial Behaviour partially mediates the relationship between Financial Knowledge, Locus of Control, and Financial Well- Being. The study also indicates that Fintech App Use moderates the relationship between Financial Knowledge, Locus of Control, and Financial Well-Being. The present study contributes to the theoretical understanding of financial well-being by investigating the mediating and moderating factors influencing this construct.