The Influence of Financial Robo-Advisors on Financial Planning Behaviour among Public University Students in Malaysia: A Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)-Based Conceptual Paper

The rapid advancement of Financial Technology (FinTech) has transformed the way individuals access financial services, particularly through the emergence of financial robo-advisors. Robo-advisors are automated digital platforms that provide algorithm-driven financial planning and investment advice with minimal human intervention. Their affordability, accessibility, and ease of use make them particularly attractive to young adults, especially university students who are digitally literate but often lack financial planning experience. In Malaysia, increasing financial literacy initiatives and FinTech adoption have created opportunities for robo-advisors to enhance students' financial planning behaviour. However, concerns remain regarding perceived usefulness, perceived ease to use, financial literacy, , and technology acceptance. This conceptual paper reviews existing literature on financial robo-advisors and proposes a conceptual framework explaining how robo-advisors influence financial planning among public university students in Malaysia. The paper integrates the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with financial behaviour theories to identify the key determinants affecting students' adoption and effective use of robo-advisors. The expected findings will be providing theoretical implications for future empirical research and practical insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and higher education institutions.

Robo-advisor, financial planning, fintech and Technology Acceptance Model

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