Technological infrastructure and connectivity on startup sustainability: A study of selected fintech industries

Economic growth and personal well-being have been greatly affected by the spread of digital financial services, especially in emerging nations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of technological infrastructure and connectivity on startup sustainability of selected fintech industries. Specifically, the study examined the effects of cybersecurity measures, 5G and beyond, and Internet of Things (IoT) on startup sustainability. A survey research design was selected, involving a population of 10,896 workers from 15 different fintech businesses. Using Krejcie and Morgan's formula, the final sample size was determined to be 386 individuals. Data collected was analysed using PLS-SEM. Findings revealed that 5G and beyond had the strongest effect on startup sustainability (Ø=0.363, t=6.005, p<0.000), followed by cybersecurity measures (Ø=0.252, t=4.262, p<0.000), and Internet of Things (Ø=0.223, t=3.862, p=0.000). It was concluded that technological infrastructure and connectivity were crucial for startup sustainability of selected fintech industries. It is therefore strongly recommended that a manager of a fintech startup concentrate on ensuring that the fundamental components of the behavioural fintech ecosystem, such as the Internet of Things, 5G and beyond, and cybersecurity measures, are suitably implemented and practised within the company to increase the sustainability of fintech startups. The practical value of this study lies in providing actionable insights for fintech startup managers to prioritise investments in technological infrastructure and connectivity, such as 5G, IoT, and cybersecurity, thereby enhancing their companies' long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the rapidly evolving digital financial landscape.