Examining the impact of Behavioral intention, Trust, Social Influence and Perceived Risk on the Financial Inclusion on the Egyptian banking sector: The Mediating Role of Mobile Banking

Abstract

This study investigates the key determinants of financial inclusion within the Egyptian banking sector by applying the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Specifically, it examines how behavioral intentions, trust, social influence, and perceived risk influence financial inclusion, with mobile banking adoption acting as a mediating variable. Using a quantitative descriptive survey design, data were collected from 420 respondents representing diverse demographic groups within the Egyptian banking population. The structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed statistically significant relationships: behavioral intentions (β = 0.45, p < 0.001), trust (β = 0.38, p < 0.001), and social influence (β = 0.32, p < 0.01) positively affected financial inclusion, whereas perceived risk exerted a significant negative impact (β = -0.27, p < 0.01). Mobile banking adoption was confirmed as a significant mediator, strengthening these effects and explaining 56% of the variance in financial inclusion. This study contributes to the growing literature by empirically validating TAM’s robustness in explaining financial inclusion dynamics in an emerging market context. From a policy perspective, the findings underscore the critical need for targeted interventions that promote mobile banking adoption to accelerate financial inclusion. Policymakers and financial institutions are encouraged to implement programs that enhance digital literacy, build trust in mobile platforms, and reduce perceived risks through improved security and transparency measures. Additionally, tailored financial products and communication strategies should be developed to address the needs of different demographic segments, ensuring inclusive access to banking services. Limitations include the study’s cross-sectional design and geographic focus on Egypt, suggesting the necessity for future research involving longitudinal data and cross-cultural comparisons to understand evolving mobile banking adoption patterns and financial inclusion trends globally.