What the study found
Financial development has a nonlinear impact on social progress, and the pattern differs by income level. Information and communication technology (ICT) appears to enhance this relationship, especially in low-income countries.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest that effective governance, digital infrastructure, and context-specific policies are needed to turn financial growth into inclusive social outcomes. They also say the findings support tailored strategies for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
What the researchers tested
The study used a quantitative panel quantile regression approach to examine the impact of financial development on social progress. It also assessed the moderating role of ICT, including digital inclusion and connectivity, and used Dawson graphs to show the moderation effect.
What worked and what didn't
The findings indicate that the influence of financial development on social progress is nonlinear rather than uniform. ICT acted as an enhancer in the relationship, with the effect described as especially important in low-income countries.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not provide detailed limitations. The study focuses on noneconomic indicators of financial development across high-, upper-middle-, lower-middle-, and low-income groups, as described in the available summary.
Key points
- Financial development was found to have a nonlinear relationship with social progress.
- The pattern of this relationship varied by income level.
- ICT moderated the relationship and was described as a key enhancer, especially in low-income countries.
- The authors point to governance, digital infrastructure, and context-specific policies as important for inclusive outcomes.
- The abstract does not describe specific limitations.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Financial development’s effect on social progress varies by income level
- Authors:
- Shanemuhamad Ch Abdulgafor, Muhammad S. Tahir
- Institutions:
- University of Lahore
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-07
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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