The digital divide in financial inclusion: bridging gaps through mobile banking and fintech innovation in Developing Economies
The digital divide in financial inclusion: bridging gaps through mobile banking and fintech innovation in Developing Economies

Summary/Abstract: The digital divide in Uzbekistan severely hampers financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas where only 15% adopt mobile banking despite 80% mobile penetration, while around 60% of the population resides outside the urban centers. This mixed-methods study (850 respondents and 45 expert interviews) across Tashkent, Fergana, and Samarkand main cities of Uzbekistan reveals smartphone access and connectivity as key predictors of digital divide, with rural-urban gaps persisting at 40% vs. 65% adoption by 2025. Poor Internet is regarded as a major barrier, mirroring global fintech hurdles, particularly in regions with inadequate digital infrastructure. Although national internet penetration increased to 62.5%, disparities in network quality and access continue to hinder the effective use of digital financial services. Logistic regression and thematic analysis underscore literacy and trust enablers. Findings advocate rural infrastructure, training, and subsidies for Digital Uzbekistan 2030. By bridging the gaps, fintech can propel equitable growth, aligning with Vision 2030 goals of the country and facilitating the over-all social-economic development.

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