Page 2818
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
Bridging Digital Confidence and Financial Technology: A Systematic
Review of Generation Z’s Mobile Payment Adoption
*
Syahida Abd Aziz., Noris Fatilla Ismail., Roziyana Jafri
Faculty of Business and Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Kedah, 08400 Merbok,
Kedah, Malaysia
*
Corresponding Author
DOI: https://doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.914MG00217
Received: 04 November 2025; Accepted: 11 November 2025; Published: 21 November 2025
ABSTRACT
The rapid growth of financial technology (fintech) has reshaped payment behaviours globally, yet the adoption
of mobile payment systems among Generation Z remains uneven. Despite being digital natives, this cohort
exhibits varied levels of trust, technological readiness, and digital confidence. This study aims to examine the
evolution and focus of existing research on Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption, identify key
determinants influencing their behavioural intentions, and highlight emerging research directions. Using a
systematic literature review supported by Scopus AI data (as of 4 November 2025), the study synthesizes
conceptual frameworks, topic experts, and thematic mappings to uncover consistent and emerging factors
shaping adoption behaviour. The findings indicate that perceived usefulness, trust, ease of use, and financial
literacy are core predictors of mobile payment adoption among Gen Z, while new themes such as technostress,
AI integration, and omnichannel engagement are gaining prominence. Theoretically, the study extends
technology adoption models by incorporating psychological and contextual factors unique to Gen Z.
Practically, it provides insights for fintech developers and policymakers to design user-centric, secure, and
engaging digital payment ecosystems. These findings underscore the need for future research exploring
emotional, social, and cultural influences in Gen Z’s financial technology adoption.
Keywords: Generation Z, Mobile Payment Adoption, Financial Technology (Fintech), Technology
Acceptance, Digital Consumer Behaviour
INTRODUCTION
The rapid proliferation of financial technology (FinTech) has transformed how consumers engage in financial
transactions, with mobile payment systems emerging as a cornerstone of this digital evolution. As economies
worldwide move toward cashless ecosystems, understanding the adoption behaviour of different generational
cohorts has become increasingly critical. Among these, Generation Z digital natives born into a
hyperconnected world represents a particularly influential demographic shaping the future of mobile payment
ecosystems. Their familiarity with digital interfaces, coupled with evolving expectations for speed,
convenience, and security, makes them a pivotal group for understanding the intersection between digital
confidence and financial technology adoption (Purohit, Kaur, & Chaturvedi, 2022; Michelle et al., 2024).
Despite the promise of FinTech, disparities persist in mobile payment adoption, particularly regarding factors
that drive or hinder Generation Z’s engagement. While earlier generations often struggled with digital
adaptation, Generation Z’s seamless integration into technology does not automatically translate into uniform
mobile payment usage. The complexity of adoption decisions stems from an interplay of psychological,
technological, and contextual factors such as trust, perceived ease of use, financial innovation, and perceived
risk (Navalgund et al., 2024; Schrank, 2025; Do et al., 2025). As mobile payments increasingly define modern
commerce, understanding these dynamics is vital for both academia and industry to bridge the gap between
digital capability and financial technology utilization.
A growing body of research has explored the determinants of mobile payment adoption among Generation Z,
Page 2819
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
emphasizing social, technological, and psychological influences. Social influence and performance expectancy
consistently predict behavioural intention, underscoring how peer norms and perceived usefulness drive
adoption (Purohit et al., 2021; Purohit et al., 2022; Navalgund et al., 2024). Effort expectancy and ease of use
also play key roles, as Gen Z users favour seamless, user-friendly platforms that enable quick digital
transactions (Febriyanti, Ulza, & Al Azizah, 2024; Shah Alam et al., 2024). Likewise, trust and security serve
as vital mediating factors, linking perceptions of safety with users’ willingness to adopt mobile payment
technologies (Michelle et al., 2024; Puri et al., 2024). In contrast, price value and promotional incentives exert
weaker effects, indicating that Gen Z’s motivations are increasingly shaped by experiential and technological
satisfaction rather than purely financial benefits (Purohit & Arora, 2021).
Despite these valuable insights, the literature remains fragmented, with inconsistencies in context,
methodology, and theoretical integration. Few studies have synthesized evidence across diverse settings to
capture Generation Z’s digital confidence which are their self-efficacy and assurance in engaging with fintech
ecosystems. This gap constrains a holistic understanding of how personal, technological, and contextual factors
interact to shape adoption behaviour. To address this limitation, the present study systematically reviews
existing literature to map research evolution, identify emerging and consistent themes, and develop a
conceptual framework illustrating the multifaceted determinants influencing Gen Z’s mobile payment
adoption. By synthesizing findings across multiple contexts, this review contributes to a deeper theoretical
understanding of digital adoption behaviour and provides actionable insights for stakeholders in academia,
industry, and policy.
The remainder of this paper is structured as follows. Section 2 outlines the methodology employed for the
systematic review, including search strategies, inclusion criteria, analytical procedures, and thematic synthesis.
Section 3 discusses the key findings, highlighting the conceptual relationships and emerging trends. Finally,
Section 4 concludes with theoretical and practical implications, outlines limitations, and suggests directions for
future research in understanding Generation Z’s engagement with financial technology.
METHODOLOGY
The present systematic review was conducted with full awareness of the capabilities and constraints of the
Scopus AI tool, accessed on 4 November 2025, within the Scopus platform (Elsevier). According to the vendor
documentation, Scopus AI supports not only conventional summary generation, but also features such as
“Expanded Summary”, “Concept Map”, “Topic Experts” and “Emerging Themes” by leveraging generative-AI
over curated Scopus metadata and abstracts.
To align with the research aims, the following method was adopted: first, a search string was formulated as
("Generation Z" OR "Gen Z" OR "youth" OR "young adult") AND ("mobile payment" OR "digital payment"
OR "e-payment" OR "contactless payment") AND ("adoption" OR "acceptance" OR "usage" OR "integration")
AND ("technology" OR "innovation" OR "finance" OR "consumer behaviour"). This search string was entered
into Scopus AI on the specified date, enabling retrieval of a broad set of documents indexed in Scopus.
Scopus AI outputs were analyzed across multiple dimensions: summary, expanded summary, concept map,
topic experts, and emerging themes (refer to Figure 1). Using the Summary and Expanded Summary features
of Scopus AI, the team generated a high-level overview of the field, extracted key bibliometric data
(publication year, authorship, country/region, subject area) and thematic keywords, thereby enabling analysis
of the evolution and focus of existing research. Next, the Concept Map feature of Scopus AI was activated to
visualise inter-relationships among determinants of mobile payment adoption among Generation Z (e.g., social
influence, ease of use, trust, perceived risk, hedonic motivation, financial innovation) and to cluster these into
thematic nodes and linkages. Meanwhile, the Topic Experts and Emerging Themes features were used to
identify leading authors and high impact works and to detect rising or novel research strands in the last two
years.
Page 2820
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
Figure 1: Five core elements of Scopus AI
The review followed a structured, tool-assisted process using Scopus AI to identify, screen, and analyse
relevant literature on Generation Z and mobile payment adoption. Inclusion criteria were limited to peer-
reviewed journal articles and conference papers indexed in Scopus that examined Generation Z (or equivalent
youth/young adult cohorts) and mobile or digital payment adoption. Publications up to 4 November 2025 were
included. Exclusion criteria eliminated non-English sources, editorials, book chapters, and studies focused
solely on older generations without disaggregated Gen Z data.
An initial title and abstract screening was performed using Scopus AI’s automated filtering and keyword
matching features. This was followed by manual validation by two independent reviewers to ensure conceptual
alignment and relevance. In total, 82 documents met the inclusion criteria after screening. For each document,
metadata (author, year, source, and country), theoretical framework (e.g., TAM, UTAUT, DOI), research
method (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed), and reported determinants of adoption were extracted.
The concept map generated by Scopus AI served as a preliminary visualization of interrelationships among
determinants. This output was manually refined using visualization software to ensure conceptual accuracy.
Topic experts were identified using Scopus AI’s author analytics, based on publication volume, citation impact
(h-index), and recency of contributions. Emerging themes were determined through algorithmic clustering of
studies published in the past two years, complemented by manual validation of keywords and abstracts to
confirm thematic novelty.
Finally, data synthesis emphasized thematic convergence rather than statistical aggregation due to
methodological heterogeneity across studies. The process from search execution to concept mapping and
theme extraction was fully documented for transparency and replicability. This structured approach allowed
for a comprehensive understanding of the evolution, focus, and intellectual landscape of Generation Z’s mobile
payment adoption research.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The results generated through Scopus AI (4 November 2025) provide a comprehensive synthesis of the
intellectual structure, conceptual linkages, and evolving discourse surrounding Generation Z’s adoption of
mobile payment technologies.
Summary and Expanded Summary
The systematic synthesis of Scopus-indexed literature reveals that Generation Z’s adoption of mobile payment
technologies is shaped by a multidimensional network of technological, social and cultural, economic, and
psychological determinants. These interrelated factors collectively underpin the concept of digital confidence a
construct that captures both the technological competence and emotional assurance enabling young users to
engage with financial technology. The findings from the Summary and Expanded Summary confirm that
Page 2821
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
Generation Z’s behavioural intention toward mobile payment is primarily influenced by perceptions of
usability, trust, innovation, and social validation (Purohit et al., 2022; Navalgund et al., 2024; Michelle et al.,
2024).
Technological aspects emerge as the foundation of mobile payment adoption, with perceived ease of use and
effort expectancy consistently identified as primary enablers. Studies indicate that Generation Z favours digital
platforms that are intuitive, visually appealing, and compatible with their mobile-centric lifestyles (Nur &
Gosal, 2021; Do et al., 2025). The seamless integration of mobile payment applications into daily digital
routines such as e-commerce, food delivery, and ride-hailing enhances convenience and reinforces positive
behavioural intention. Compatibility between technological design and user lifestyle has also been found to
enhance perceived usefulness, suggesting that mobile payment systems aligned with youth culture foster
greater adoption rates (Irma & Anetta, 2021). These findings support the Technology Acceptance Model
(TAM) and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), wherein ease of use and
perceived usefulness jointly drive adoption among tech-savvy consumers.
Social influence is another critical determinant, with peer recommendations, social norms, and media exposure
exerting substantial effects on adoption intention (Michelle et al., 2024; Navalgund et al., 2024). Generation
Z’s identity as a socially connected and media-driven cohort makes them particularly responsive to digital
word-of-mouth and influencer-led financial campaigns. The integration of mobile payment services with social
media platforms has further accelerated adoption by embedding financial technology within familiar digital
ecosystems. In addition, subjective norms, as identified in AI and fintech adoption studies, reinforce collective
behaviour patterns where digital payment becomes a marker of participation in a modern, tech-oriented
lifestyle (Lim et al., 2025). This underscores the need for service providers to capitalize on social networks and
peer-driven engagement strategies to strengthen the normative acceptance of mobile payments among young
consumers.
From an economic standpoint, the literature highlights a dual dynamic between financial innovation and
perceived financial risk. Generation Z exhibits enthusiasm toward innovative financial technologies that offer
convenience, transparency, and cross-platform functionality (Febriyanti et al., 2024). However, this enthusiasm
is tempered by concerns about security, privacy, and data protection, which remain significant deterrents to
adoption (Puri et al., 2024). The perception of financial risk particularly fears of fraud, data breaches, and
unauthorized access reduces trust and hinders long-term adoption (Al-Qudah et al., 2024). Thus, while
Generation Z welcomes technological novelty, they also demand stringent security assurances and transparent
data governance. These findings align with Schrank’s (2025) observation that risk aversion and privacy
consciousness increasingly characterize Generation Z’s digital behaviour, shaping their expectations for
trustworthy fintech systems.
Among psychological variables, trust and perceived enjoyment play decisive roles. Trust acts as both a
mediator and outcome of other adoption drivers, bridging technological reliability and behavioural intention
(Michelle et al., 2024; Purohit & Arora, 2021). Higher levels of information security awareness including
familiarity with two-factor authentication, digital receipts, and privacy settings correlate with stronger trust in
mobile payments (Puri et al., 2024). Moreover, hedonic motivation or the enjoyment derived from using
mobile payment applications enhances engagement by transforming financial tasks into seamless and
satisfying digital experiences (Nur & Gosal, 2021). This aligns with research showing that Generation Z values
experiential convenience as much as functional efficiency, preferring apps that offer not only reliability but
also aesthetic appeal and gamified features (Shah Alam et al., 2024). Collectively, these factors reinforce that
trust and enjoyment are intertwined components of digital confidence, sustaining adoption beyond initial trial.
The findings from the Summary and Expanded Summary collectively reaffirm that Generation Z’s mobile
payment adoption is not solely a function of technological readiness but rather the interplay between digital
confidence and perceived trustworthiness of financial innovations. This dynamic can be interpreted through the
extended UTAUT and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) frameworks, where innovation appeal interacts with
social validation, risk mitigation, and emotional satisfaction. Notably, while price value and promotional
incentives were found to have marginal or even negative effects (Purohit & Arora, 2021; Purohit et al., 2022),
intrinsic motivators such as trust, confidence, and convenience dominate the decision-making process. This
Page 2822
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
suggests a paradigm shift from transactional benefits toward relational and experiential value, reflecting the
maturing digital behaviour of Generation Z.
In the context of service providers and marketing purposes, ease of use, strong security and social influence are
key mechanisms for continued participation. Introducing intuitive design and clear data policies, will enhance
trust and lead to repeat usage (Do et al., 2025). Policymakers should take a wider focus on digital financial
literacy and trust in security among youth, as well educational institutions to incorporate fintech literacy into
their existing curricula in order the students who participate is digital finance doing it securely and confidently
(Barus et al., 2024). Combining these two approaches will help nurture a digitally confident generation capable
of engaging responsibly with the changing world of fintech.
Concept Map
The concept map generated by Scopus AI (4 November 2025) provides a visual representation of key
determinants influencing Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption. As shown in Figure 2, it highlights three
major domains which are technological aspects, influencing factors, and Generation Z characteristics that
shape adoption behaviour. Technological factors such as self-efficacy and lifestyle compatibility interact with
social and financial influences, while Generation Z’s unique attitudes and digital literacy further drive mobile
payment acceptance. This framework illustrates the multidimensional nature of mobile payment adoption
within this digitally native cohort.
Figure 2: Concept map of mobile payments adoption
A Review of Mobile Payments Adoption
The review of recent literature retrieved from Scopus AI (as of November 4, 2025) reveals that Generation Z’s
adoption of mobile payment technologies is primarily influenced by multiple interrelated factors rooted in
technology acceptance and behavioural theories. Core determinants such as perceived ease of use, perceived
usefulness, system trust, and risk perception consistently emerge as central predictors of adoption intention
(Bailey et al., 2020; Petrova & Mehra, 2010). These findings align with the TAM, emphasizing the role of user
perception and utility in driving behavioural intention toward technology usage. Moreover, socio-cultural
influence and technology readiness further shape the willingness of young consumers to adopt mobile payment
platforms, suggesting that social networks and prior exposure to digital innovations play a pivotal role (Yan et
al., 2022). Collectively, these determinants underscore the cognitive and affective processes that guide
Generation Z’s engagement with financial technology.
Despite growing acceptance, several barriers hinder the widespread adoption of mobile payments among
Generation Z users. Studies indicate that premium pricing, complexity, compatibility issues, and perceived
risks remain significant deterrents, particularly in regions where digital payment ecosystems are still evolving
Page 2823
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
(Mallat, 2007; Mallat & Tuunainen, 2005). Additionally, situational factors such as the unavailability of
alternative payment methods or transactional urgency can prompt temporary adoption rather than habitual use
(Mallat, 2007). The interplay between motivation and constraint reflects the dynamic nature of adoption
behaviour, which may fluctuate depending on contextual and psychological circumstances. Therefore,
addressing perceived risks and enhancing transaction security are critical for encouraging sustained usage
among Generation Z consumers who prioritize both convenience and trust in digital finance platforms.
Furthermore, the role of technological innovation readiness and market environmental factors provides deeper
insight into adoption trends across geographical contexts. The Technology Readiness Index (TRI), a
determinant of TAM, has been shown to moderate user attitudes toward mobile payment technologies,
especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when digital alternatives became essential (Muthusamy et al.,
2024). Market-specific studies, such as those conducted in China and Thailand, highlight the impact of
consumer psychology and local infrastructure on adoption rates, emphasizing that cultural and economic
differences influence digital payment acceptance (Changchit et al., 2024; Yan et al., 2022). Additionally, peer-
to-peer (P2P) mobile payments have gained traction due to social network integration and habitual use of
mobile banking apps, reinforcing the influence of digital ecosystems on user adoption (Lim et al., 2018).
Overall, these findings illustrate that Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption is a multidimensional process
shaped by technological, psychological, and contextual variables that continue to evolve with financial
innovation.
Mobile Payments Adoption and Technological Aspects
The analysis of recent Scopus AI findings (as of November 4, 2025) indicates that technological aspects play a
pivotal role in shaping Generation Z’s adoption of mobile payment systems. The rapid evolution of digital
technologies has enhanced the accessibility, security, and practicality of mobile payment services, thereby
influencing users’ behavioural intentions and overall satisfaction (Prabaningtyas et al., 2019). Generation Z,
being digital natives, values systems that are efficient, user-friendly, and seamlessly integrated into their
lifestyle. According to Yeh (2020), service innovation, system quality, and brand equity strengthen user trust
and convenience, while switching costs and service reliability further determine the likelihood of adoption.
The improved technological infrastructure—such as enhanced internet connectivity and real-time transaction
systems has reduced friction in digital financial activities, positioning mobile payments as a preferred mode of
transaction for young, tech-savvy users.
From a theoretical perspective, the relationship between mobile payment adoption and technological aspects is
frequently examined through frameworks such as TAM and UTAUT. These models highlight the significance
of perceived usefulness, ease of use, and performance expectancy in predicting technology adoption (Koenig-
Lewis et al., 2015; Singh, 2020). Furthermore, TRI has been integrated into these frameworks to assess users’
innovation readiness and technological optimism, providing deeper insight into how Generation Z perceives
and engages with mobile payment technologies (Muthusamy et al., 2024). The synergy between TAM,
UTAUT, and TRI underscores that technological factors such as usability, interactivity, and perceived
reliability serve as both enablers and motivators in influencing adoption behaviour among younger users who
value digital fluency and convenience.
Post-adoption behaviour further reinforces the technological dimension of mobile payment usage. As Singh
(2020) notes, users’ satisfaction, trust, performance expectancy, and effort expectancy significantly shape
continued use and loyalty toward mobile payment platforms. Technological elements such as app stability,
transaction speed, and data protection mechanisms enhance user trust and retention, which are crucial for
sustaining engagement in competitive fintech ecosystems. However, Valencia-Arias et al. (2025) highlight that
socioeconomic and cultural contexts moderate these technological influences, suggesting that adoption success
is contingent upon both system design and market readiness. In essence, the relationship between mobile
payment adoption and technological aspects reflects a complex interplay between technological innovation,
user experience, and contextual adaptability key dimensions that determine how Generation Z embraces digital
financial technologies.
Mobile Payments Adoption and Influencing Factors
Page 2824
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
The results from the Scopus AI review (as of November 4, 2025) indicate that Generation Z’s adoption of
mobile payment systems is primarily driven by cognitive, social, and contextual influencing factors. Central to
these determinants are constructs derived from TAM, including perceived usefulness and perceived ease of
use, which consistently emerge as significant predictors of mobile payment adoption (Liu & Zhang, 2011; Li
& Zhang, 2012). When Generation Z perceives that mobile payment applications improve efficiency,
convenience, and financial control, their intention to adopt increases substantially (Reiting et al., 2020).
Similarly, ease of use reduces cognitive effort, reinforcing favourable attitudes toward adoption. Pramana
(2021) further underscores that these behavioural intentions are strengthened by trust, security assurance, and
intuitive design factors critical for engaging tech-savvy digital consumers. Collectively, these findings
highlight that technological functionality and perceived value strongly influence adoption behaviour among
Generation Z.
Beyond individual perceptions, social and psychological factors significantly shape mobile payment adoption
behaviour. Studies focusing on Generation Z users have shown that social influence, performance expectancy,
and effort expectancy are key drivers of behavioural intention (Purohit et al., 2022; Navalgund et al., 2024).
Peer recommendations, influencer culture, and the normalization of cashless transactions amplify the perceived
desirability of using mobile payments. Lee et al. (2004) found that the inclusion of technological and social
perspectives enhances explanatory power in adoption models, especially in contexts where communal and
digital engagement overlap. Moreover, technology anxiety can moderate these relationships, as users with
lower confidence in using financial apps are less likely to adopt despite social encouragement (Lee et al.,
2004). These insights suggest that building user trust and fostering positive digital attitudes are essential
strategies for increasing adoption rates within this generational cohort.
Contextual and environmental factors also exert a substantial influence on mobile payment adoption. In
emerging economies and specific market segments, institutional trust, after-sale services, and product bundling
influence user perceptions and behaviours (Hasan et al., 2019). For Generation Z consumers in developing
contexts, convenience, transparency, and corporate integrity emerge as critical determinants for sustained
engagement. Purohit et al. (2022) emphasize that sociocultural factors, such as digital peer networks and
exposure to global fintech trends, enhance openness to mobile transactions. Collectively, these findings affirm
that the adoption of mobile payments is not merely a technological decision, but a multifaceted process shaped
by interrelated individual, social, and contextual influences. Addressing these dimensions holistically is
essential for promoting broader adoption and ensuring equitable access to financial technology innovations
among Generation Z users.
Mobile Payments Adoption and Generation Z Characteristics
The findings reveal that Generation Z’s unique characteristics strongly influence their adoption of mobile
payment systems, shaped by their technological fluency, digital lifestyle, and trust orientation. As digital
natives, Generation Z individuals are comfortable navigating mobile platforms, leading to higher perceived
ease of use and usefulness two core determinants of adoption according to the TAM (Purohit et al., 2022;
Michelle et al., 2024). Their preference for convenience and speed aligns with the practical advantages of
mobile payment systems, such as cashless transactions and instant access to financial services (Agárdi & Alt,
2024; Shams et al., 2020). Furthermore, compatibility with their digital-centric lifestyle enhances adoption
intention, as Generation Z consumers tend to integrate technology seamlessly into daily activities like
shopping and entertainment (Lee & Kim, 2022). Thus, their digital competence and desire for simplicity and
innovation position them as early and enthusiastic adopters of financial technology solutions.
Social and psychological factors also play a vital role in influencing Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption
behaviour. Studies emphasize that social media engagement, trust, and peer influence significantly shape their
decision-making process (Michelle et al., 2024; Purohit et al., 2022). Generation Z values transparency and
authenticity in financial technologies, meaning that their trust in service providers and perceptions of security
directly affect their adoption intentions (Febriyanti et al., 2024; Schrank, 2025). Social networks and online
platforms further reinforce these behaviours, as recommendations and shared experiences foster a sense of
digital community. Compared to older generations, Gen Z places more importance on personalized user
experiences, visual appeal, and responsive customer service, highlighting that emotional engagement and
Page 2825
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
digital identity also underpin adoption behaviour (Irma & Anetta, 2021; Shams et al., 2020). These findings
suggest that companies targeting this generation should design trust-based, interactive, and socially integrated
payment experiences to enhance engagement and loyalty.
Additionally, individual differences such as gender and financial literacy introduce further nuances in
Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption patterns. Purohit and Arora (2021) found that male users tend to be
more influenced by performance expectancy, while female users prioritize effort expectancy and price value,
reflecting gender-specific motivations in technology use. Moreover, digital financial literacy serves as an
enabling factor that increases confidence and reduces perceived financial risk, thereby promoting adoption
(Michelle et al., 2024). However, barriers such as concerns over privacy and financial control still deter some
users (Schrank, 2025). Collectively, these insights indicate that Generation Z’s mobile payment adoption is
driven by a combination of technological familiarity, social influence, trust, and demographic diversity,
underscoring the need for customized and inclusive strategies in digital financial innovation.
Topic Expert
The analysis of leading topic experts in the field of mobile payment adoption and Generation Z's fintech
behaviour points to significant scholarly contributions of leading scholars in the field, such as Muhardi M.
Saputra, Widia W. Febriyani, and Widyatasya Agustika Nurtrisha, to psychological, technological, and
behavioural understandings of digital finance. Saputra (2023) presents a basic view on the interplay between
technology, finance, and youth behaviours, focusing on the concept of technostress-a sort of psychological
strain driven by overexposure to digital devices-and its influence on the behaviour of Generation Z when using
mobile payments and peer-to-peer investment platforms. He shows that while Gen Z has very high digital
competence, excessive technological demands weaken digital confidence and hamper continued use of mobile
payment systems. This insight is important for setting in context how mobile payment adoption is not purely a
function of technology acceptance but also of emotional well-being and adaptive capacity in digitally mediated
environments.
Complementing Saputra’s work, Widia W. Febriyani focuses on user experience and behavioural determinants
influencing fintech adoption among Generation Z. Her studies emphasize the role of technostress, digital trust,
and usability in shaping young consumers’ perceptions of fintech reliability (Febriyani, 2022). Febriyani
highlights that while Generation Z is open to digital finance innovations, their willingness to adopt mobile
payment systems depends on perceived control, platform transparency, and data protection assurance. This
aligns with the broader findings in the literature that emphasize trust, ease of use, and perceived usefulness as
core determinants of adoption behaviour (Purohit et al., 2022; Lee & Kim, 2022). Her research also suggests
that addressing digital fatigue and improving interface intuitiveness can enhance Gen Z’s engagement and
mitigate the psychological burden associated with constant digital connectivity.
Meanwhile, Widyatasya Agustika Nurtrisha’s contributions deepen the understanding of behavioural and
perceptual challenges that Generation Z faces in adopting mobile payment systems. Her work highlights that
technostress, perceived risk, and self-efficacy play crucial roles in determining digital confidence, particularly
in contexts where fintech systems are rapidly evolving (Nurtrisha, 2023). By exploring how emotional
resilience and adaptability affect technology acceptance, Nurtrisha’s findings complement the TAM and TRI,
suggesting that emotional and cognitive readiness must be integrated into adoption frameworks (Muthusamy et
al., 2024). Collectively, the contributions of these experts reveal that the successful adoption of mobile
payment technologies among Generation Z requires not only technological innovation but also psychological
support mechanisms, emphasizing digital literacy, emotional awareness, and trust-building strategies to foster
long-term adoption and satisfaction.
Emerging Themes
Consistent Themes
The review of emerging themes reveals that research on mobile payment adoption among Generation Z
consistently emphasizes three major areas of inquiry: behavioural determinants, psychological factors, and
Page 2826
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
technological innovation. The consistent themes revolve around the key factors influencing Gen Z’s adoption
of mobile payments, including perceived security, trust, and financial literacy, alongside the influence of social
media on consumer attitudes (Purohit et al., 2022; Saputra, 2023). Studies highlight that Generation Z’s
openness to mobile payment systems stems from their familiarity with digital platforms and social media
ecosystems yet concerns over data privacy and transaction security remain barriers to widespread adoption
(Lee & Kim, 2022). Additionally, technostress stemming from excessive digital interaction and security
concerns has emerged as a consistent psychological barrier to fintech usage (Febriyani, 2022; Nurtrisha, 2023).
Addressing these concerns through enhanced user education, intuitive design, and transparent customer
support is critical to sustaining adoption and reducing digital fatigue within this generation.
Rising Theme
The rising theme centers on the integration of mobile payments with online shopping, reflecting the
acceleration of social commerce and e-commerce adoption among Generation Z. As this cohort increasingly
engages in online retail and personalized marketing ecosystems, mobile payment systems are becoming
integral to their digital consumption habits (Muthusamy et al., 2024). The literature suggests that social
commerce, digital coupons, and influencer-driven marketing significantly encourage payment adoption by
embedding convenience and immediacy into purchasing behaviour (Alalwan et al., 2022). This indicates a shift
in the role of mobile payments from being purely transactional tools to value-added experiences that enhance
shopping satisfaction and social connectivity. The convergence of online retail and digital payment
underscores the importance of integrating personalization, security, and gamification to maintain Gen Z’s
engagement and trust in digital financial platforms.
Novel Theme
Finally, the novel theme of omnichannel integration and Gen Z consumer engagement offers a new dimension
to understanding digital payment ecosystems. Recent studies highlight how seamless cross-channel
experiences linking mobile payments, in-store interactions, and social platforms create stronger emotional
connections and brand loyalty among Gen Z consumers (Kaur & Wadera, 2023). Trust signaling, peer
influence, and social contagion are found to reinforce repurchase intentions and continuous platform usage in
omnichannel environments (Nguyen et al., 2024). This novel perspective expands the discourse on mobile
payment adoption by situating it within a broader ecosystem of digital experience and engagement, where
technology acceptance and emotional resonance jointly determine long-term adoption. As digital ecosystems
continue to evolve, future research should examine how these omnichannel frameworks influence behavioural
loyalty and financial decision-making among Generation Z across global contexts.
CONCLUSION
This systematic review highlights that Generation Z’s adoption of mobile payment systems is shaped by a
complex interplay of technological, psychological, and social factors. The findings consistently indicate that
perceived trust, ease of use, financial literacy, and security remain central determinants of adoption (Purohit et
al., 2022; Lee & Kim, 2022). Beyond these traditional technology acceptance variables, technostress and
digital confidence emerge as key psychological elements influencing Gen Z’s engagement with fintech
platforms (Saputra, 2023; Febriyani, 2022). Additionally, rising trends such as the integration of mobile
payments with e-commerce and the emergence of omnichannel experiences demonstrate how digital
ecosystems increasingly shape purchasing behaviour and long-term loyalty among this demographic
(Muthusamy et al., 2024; Kaur & Wadera, 2023).
From a theoretical perspective, this review extends existing technology adoption frameworks such as TAM
and UTAUT by integrating psychological stressors (technostress) and social influence mechanisms (social
contagion and peer trust). This multidimensional approach provides a more holistic understanding of how
digital-native consumers evaluate and adopt financial technologies. Practically, the findings underscore the
need for fintech developers and financial institutions to design mobile payment solutions that align with Gen
Z’s lifestyle values: seamless usability, security transparency, social media integration, and personalized digital
experiences. Strengthening financial literacy programs and incorporating AI-driven personalization can further
Page 2827
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
enhance digital confidence and user retention in this market.
Despite its contributions, this study is limited by the heterogeneity of sources and the reliance on secondary
data, which may not fully capture cross-cultural or socioeconomic differences within Generation Z.
Furthermore, most studies focus on adoption intention rather than sustained usage behaviour, leaving a gap in
understanding long-term fintech engagement. Future research should adopt longitudinal and cross-regional
approaches to explore evolving digital payment behaviours, and examine emerging factors such as AI ethics,
data privacy regulation, and environmental sustainability in fintech usage. Investigating gendered or cultural
nuances within Generation Z’s adoption patterns could also yield more inclusive strategies for digital financial
innovation.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Kedah State Research Committee, UiTM Kedah
Branch, for the generous funding provided under the Tabung Penyelidikan Am. This support was crucial in
facilitating the research and ensuring the successful publication of this article.
REFERENCES
1. Al-Qudah, A. A., Al-Okaily, M., Shiyyab, F. S., Taha, A. A. D., Almajali, D. A., Masa’deh, R., &
Warrad, L. H. (2024). Determinants of digital payment adoption among Generation Z: An empirical
study. Journal of Risk and Financial Management, 17(11), 521. https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17110521
2. Bailey, A. A., Pentina, I., Mishra, A. S., & Ben Mimoun, M. S. (2020). Exploring factors influencing US
millennial consumers’ use of tap-and-go payment technology. International Review of Retail,
Distribution and Consumer Research, 30(2), 143–163. https://doi.org/10.1080/09593969.2019.1667854
3. Barus, I. S. L., Lasniroha, T., & Bayunitri, B. I. (2024). Navigating the digital financial landscape: The
role of financial literacy and digital payment behaviour in shaping financial management among
Generation Z students. Journal of Logistics, Informatics and Service Science, 11(7), 302–323.
https://doi.org/10.33168/JLISS.2024.0716
4. Changchit, C., Cutshall, R., & Pham, L. (2024). Unveiling the path to mobile payment adoption: Insights
from Thai consumers. Journal of Risk and Financial Management, 17(8), 315.
https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm17080315
5. Do, A. D., Ha, D. L., Nguyen, A. T., Le, M. D., Nguyen, M. H. N., & Dang, A. Q. (2025). Digital
transformation of online payments: Interface design and customer service roles in E-wallet adoption in
Vietnam. Cogent Business and Management, 12(1), 2557966.
https://doi.org/10.1080/23311975.2025.2557966
6. Fadhil, M. K., & Subriadi, A. P. (2023). Factor affecting behaviour intention to use mobile payment
adoption: An analysis of literature review. In Proceedings of the International Conference on Computer
Science, Information Technology and Engineering (ICCoSITE 2023) (pp. 847–852). IEEE.
https://doi.org/10.1109/ICCoSITE57641.2023.10127839
7. Faris, M., & Mahmud, M. N. (2022). Mobile payment technology. In Artificial neural networks and
structural equation modeling: Marketing and consumer research applications (pp. 179–199). Springer.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-6509-8_11
8. Irma, A., & Anetta, A. M. (2021). Generational differences in accepting mobile wallet: Comparison of
generations X and Z. Statisztikai Szemle, 99(11), 1049–1079.
https://doi.org/10.20311/stat2021.11.hu1049
9. Koenig-Lewis, N., Marquet, M., Palmer, A., & Zhao, A. L. (2015). Enjoyment and social influence:
Predicting mobile payment adoption. Service Industries Journal, 35(10), 537–554.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02642069.2015.1043278
10. Lim, K. B., Low, K. H., Yeo, S. F., & Tan, C. L. (2025). Factors influencing Generation Z's adoption of
AI in banking: An extended technology acceptance model approach. Journal of Logistics, Informatics
and Service Science, 12(4), 178–192. https://doi.org/10.33168/JLISS.2025.0410
11. Mallat, N. (2007). Exploring consumer adoption of mobile payments: A qualitative study. Journal of
Strategic Information Systems, 16(4), 413–432. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsis.2007.08.001
Page 2828
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XIV October 2025 | Special Issue on Management
12. Mallat, N., & Tuunainen, V. K. (2005). Merchant adoption of mobile payment systems. In Proceedings
of the 4th Annual International Conference on Mobile Business (ICMB 2005) (pp. 347–353). IEEE.
https://doi.org/10.1109/ICMB.2005.58
13. Michelle, A. O., Sukamto, A. O., Chainanda, J., Nur, T., & Smith, E. (2024). Empowering Generation Z
digitally: The role of financial literacy, social media, and trust in embracing mobile payment. In
Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Creative Communication and Innovative Technology
(ICCIT 2024). IEEE. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICCIT62134.2024.10701135
14. Muthusamy, G., Awang, A. H., Harun, H., Kamis, R., Bahtar, A. Z., Yazid, Z. A., & Daud, S. (2024).
Modeling the Technology Readiness Index (TRI) for the adoption of mobile payment technologies
during the COVID-19 pandemic. AIP Conference Proceedings, 2799(1), 020112.
https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0183139
15. Navalgund, N., Hanji, S. V., Mahantshetti, S. S., Chickerur, S., & Sajjanar, R. (2024). Driving factors of
mobile payment adoption: A focus on Gen-Z consumers. In Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems
(Vol. 946, pp. 273–283). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-1323-3_23
16. Nur, T. (2024). Generation Z's adoption of E-wallet: Understanding factors and implication for
consumptive behaviour. In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Software Engineering
and Information Technology (ICoSEIT 2024) (pp. 245–250). IEEE.
https://doi.org/10.1109/ICoSEIT60086.2024.10497467
17. Nur, T., & Gosal, G. A. (2021). Mobile payment usage in online shopping among Gen Z in the
JABODETABEK area: META-UTAUT approach. In Proceedings of the 2021 International Conference
on Information Management and Technology (ICIMTech 2021) (pp. 464–469). IEEE.
https://doi.org/10.1109/ICIMTech53080.2021.9535003
18. Purohit, S., Kaur, J., & Chaturvedi, S. (2022). Mobile payment adoption among youth: Generation Z and
developing country perspective. Journal of Content, Community and Communication, 15(8), 194–209.
https://doi.org/10.31620/JCCC.06.22/14
19. Purohit, S., & Arora, R. (2021). Role of gender on intention to adopt mobile payments among
Generation Z. Transnational Marketing Journal, 9(1), 167–180. https://doi.org/10.33182/tmj.v9i1.1011
20. Schrank, J. (2025). Factors deterring the use of mobile payment among Generation Z. Family and
Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 53(4), e70016. https://doi.org/10.1111/fcsr.70016
21. Shah Alam, S., Ahmed, S., Ahmad Kokash, H., Shahed Mahmud, M., & Zafrin Sharnali, S. (2024).
Utility and hedonic perception—Customers’ intention towards using of QR codes in mobile payment of
Generation Y and Generation Z. Electronic Commerce Research and Applications, 65, 101389.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.elerap.2024.101389
22. Yan, J., Zhou, Y., & Mei, M. Q. (2022). Why do you use a smartphone to pay? Determinants of mobile
payment adoption in China. Strategic Change, 31(6), 603–611. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsc.2527
23. Yeh, H. (2020). Factors in the ecosystem of mobile payment affecting its use: From the customers'
perspective in Taiwan. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research, 15(1), 13–29.
https://doi.org/10.4067/S0718-18762020000100103
24. Zhang, Y., Sun, J., Yang, Z., & Wang, Y. (2018). What makes people actually embrace or shun mobile
payment: A cross-culture study. Mobile Information Systems, 2018, 7497545.
https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/7497545
25. Valencia-Arias, A., Jimenez Garcia, J. A., Moreno-López, G., Oré León, A. J. A., Palacios-Moya, L.,
Valencia, J., & Benjumea-Arias, M. (2025). Research trends in mobile payment adoption: Research
trends and agenda. F1000Research, 14, 358. https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.159551.2
