How energy transition and fintech influence income inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from a panel-corrected standard error approach

Abstract

This study explores the role of financial technology (FinTech) and the energy transition in shaping income inequality across 45 sub-Saharan African economies (SSA). By employing the panel-corrected standard errors approach, the analysis takes into account contextual and institutional factors, as well as regional specificities, for the period extending from 2000 to 2021. This research elucidates the connections among energy transition, FinTech, and income inequality, emphasizing their significance for economic progress and clean energy access. The findings reveal significant inequality in the outcomes of SSA countries, with an average Gini index of 43.197, indicating that most countries are unequal. This study reveals a notable connection between transitioning to renewable energy sources and a reduction in income inequality, with a one-unit increase in the energy transition indicator resulting in a 5.10% decrease in inequality. Moreover, FinTech is also found to contribute to a reduction in income inequality, with a 1.31% decrease observed for every unit increase in the FinTech indicator. The analysis also revealed a weak, yet statistically significant, link between population density and income inequality, with a one-unit increase in inequality of 0.00632%. Notably, industrial value added is found to be an influential factor with a statistically significant coefficient of 0.129. The key implications of the study emphasize the importance of redistributive policies, financial inclusion, and the promotion of renewable energy sources in constructing more inclusive economic systems. Furthermore, the study underscores the significant value of accurate energy production prediction for informed decision-making in energy planning and policy-making on regional and global scales.