Financial inclusion and sustainable development goals: a moderated mediation approach of fintech and sustainable happiness: evidence from Ghana

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between financial inclusion and sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Ghana. Specifically, we investigate the mediating role of fintech adoption and the moderating effect of sustainable happiness (SH) on this relationship. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a cross-sectional quantitative research approach. We collected data from 336 households in the La Dade-Kotopon municipal area using a structured questionnaire. They used partial least squares structural equation modeling for data analysis. Findings The findings reveal that financial inclusion significantly contributes to SDGs through differential pathways across economic, environmental, and social sustainability (SOC) dimensions. Access to credit facilities demonstrates consistent positive effects across all three sustainability outcomes. The quality of financial services (QFS) shows the strongest influence on economic sustainability but exhibits no significant environmental effects. Usage of financial services (UFS) significantly impacts environmental and SOC but not economic outcomes. Fintech adoption significantly mediates the relationship between financial inclusion and SDGs. SH positively moderates the indirect effects of access to credit facilities and UFS on SDGs through fintech adoption but negatively moderates the relationship between QFS and economic and SOC outcomes. Originality/value This study presents a novel integrated model that combines financial inclusion, fintech adoption, SH and SDGs. It contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on these interrelationships in the context of a developing economy.