Digital inclusive finance, economic growth and innovative development

Purpose This paper aims to explore the impact of digital inclusive finance (DIF) on regional economic growth and innovation-driven development. Design/methodology/approach Based on the panel data of 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government) in China from 2011 to 2018, this paper explores the impact of DIF on economic growth and innovative development. Findings (1) DIF has a direct positive effect on economic growth and innovative development; (2) there is significant regional heterogeneity in the impact of DIF on economic growth and innovative development. (3) DIF can indirectly affect economic growth and innovative development by increasing residents’ personal disposable income, increasing fiscal expenditure and improving educational level. Social implications Exploring the relationship between them and digital inclusive financial development can provide a reference for national productivity construction and development. Originality/value Economic growth and innovation-driven development have been one of the main concerns of China’s policymakers. Exploring the relationship between them, digital inclusive financial development can provide a reference for national productivity construction and development.