Fintech adoption and its impact on climate smart agriculture technology adoption and agricultural productivity in rice and maize farming

Farmers have an increasing need for financial resources, which has led to the development and adoption of Fintech. Fintech and climate-smart agricultural technologies might revolutionize how we fight climate change and promote sustainable farming, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by improving agricultural productivity and climate resilience. This research aims to identify the determinants of Fintech adoption and productivity of rice and maize cultivation, and how Fintech affects farmers’ adoption of climate-smart agriculture technology in transforming the agro-economy. To evaluate the effect of Fintech on rice and maize production, the study carried out a cross-sectional survey in Kaliganj and Kaliakair Upazilas of Gazipur district of Bangladesh. In total, 240 rural households were selected for face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. To achieve the study's goals, a binary logistic model and a Cobb-Douglas production function were used. bKash, Rocket, and Nagad are widely chosen Fintech technologies among the top six favorite Fintechs. Education, remittances, the number of mobile phones, fintech adoption, and family size significantly affect the adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies for both rice and maize farmers. Both rice and maize output are significantly influenced by fertilizer use, family size, number of mobile phones, remittances, and the use of financial technology. Policymakers should strengthen rural financial infrastructure, encourage the adoption of Fintech and climate-smart agriculture, and prioritize digital literacy and financial awareness in line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 2, and SDG 13. Our research expands understanding of how Fintech activities affect CSA practices in rice and maize farmers, supporting decisions aligned with institutional and governmental goals for sustainable development. JEL codes: D24, Q14, Q16, Q54