Introduction Technological change is a mega trend that drives sustainable development in the agrifood sector globally. The introduction of BanQu, a blockchain-enabled platform, aimed to address challenges like lack of transparency, side-selling, and unfair pricing in Uganda's barley value chain, but its acceptance has been slow. While blockchain adoption has thrived in developed countries and large supply chains, empirical evidence on its uptake among smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Uganda, remains limited. This study investigates determinants of smallholder barley farmers' intentions to accept blockchain technology (BCT) in Uganda. Methods The study utilized the second extension of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM2), customized to fit Uganda's context. Quantitative data were gathered from 245 farmers in Bukwo and Kween, the two leading barley-producing districts in eastern Uganda. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results and discussion The study showed that perceived usefulness (PU) significantly influenced behavioral intention (BI) and shaped perceived ease of use (PEU). Subjective norms (SUN) and voluntariness (BV) enhanced PU, while perceived behavioral control (PBC) improved PEU. Notably, BCT relevance (BR) directly influenced BI, bypassing PU. These findings provide fresh insights into rural technology adoption, highlighting PU's influence on PEU and BV's role in shaping PU. The study recommends emphasizing BCT benefits such as reducing transaction costs, leveraging social networks, and addressing resource gaps to boost acceptance. This study advances understanding of BCT adoption among smallholder farmers in emerging economies like Uganda.
ABSTRACT While nonâfungible tokens (NFTs) have emerged as a significant blockchain application, research has largely focused on market dynamics rather than consumer behavior. Through inâdepth interviews with 21 NFT consumers and a netnographic analysis of Discord interactions (109,517 words), this study develops a comprehensive framework explaining the evolution from initial purchase to sustained or discontinued interest in NFTs. The findings reveal that while profit expectations drive initial purchases, strong community bonds and social identity formation are crucial for maintaining engagement. Specifically, active community participation, both before and after purchases, creates a selfâreinforcing cycle where engagement directly influences NFT valuation. However, unfulfilled profit expectations and perceived community abandonment by project leaders often lead to disillusionment. The study extends the NeedâtoâBelong and Social Identity Theory to the digital asset context, demonstrating how NFT communities serve as platforms for identity expression and emotional support, transcending purely financial motivations. For practitioners, the findings suggest that sustainable NFT projects should prioritize community building and transparent leadership over shortâterm speculation. This research provides the first longitudinal analysis of NFT consumer behavior, offering insights into how digital assets can create enduring value through social engagement rather than merely speculative trading.
By drawing from the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) theory, this research aims to develop a model to examine the adoption of a blockchain technology based on a survey from 362 manufacturers in Sichuan, China. A structural equation modeling method was adopted to analyze the effects of the TOE approach on the manufacturerâs adoption of blockchain technology. The results indicated that technology, organization, and the environment had positive effects on the manufacturerâs adoption of blockchain technology. Organizational factors are significant antecedents to a manufacturerâs adoption of blockchain technology, followed by technological and environmental factors. Specifically, this research found that environmental factors had a moderating effect and strengthened the influence of organizational factors on the manufacturerâs adoption of blockchain technology. Managerial and theoretical implications from the research findings were discussed to develop blockchain technology in the manufacturing industry.
The research examines the increased popularity of electronic currencies as well as the radical change towards a digital economy.In the last decade, the use of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and newly formed central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) has gained momentum, capturing extraordinary shifts in financial frameworks as well as in global economic models.The study examines the factors driving the growing adoption of digital currencies, noting their advantages including decentralization, improved security, lower transaction costs, and the capacity to enable cross-border payments.Aside from analysing the economic and technological drivers of digital currency adoption, the research looks at the general implications of digital finance on the existing banking systems, monetary policy, and regulatory regimes.The research also discusses the potential role of digital currencies in promoting financial inclusion, especially in areas with limited access to mainstream banking services.In addition, the research examines how the growth of the digital economy, typified by the convergence of digital currencies, blockchain technology, and decentralized finance (DeFi), is changing business models and consumer behaviours in various industries.The research, conducted through a mixture of surveys, case studies, and interviews with experts, cites major challenges including volatility, regulatory ambiguity, and security risks that may affect future stability and development of digital currencies. REVIEW OF LITERATUREDevlin (2019) -An Analysis of main and subsidiary credit card holding and spending.This research aims to investigate why the majority of multiple credit card holders hold a "main" card (i.e., one that is more frequently used than the others) and "subsidiary" cards (i.e., ones used less frequently or in an emergency situation) and the spending behaviour on main and subsidiary cards.
This paper presents method for transforming education funding through a blockchain-powered crowdfunding platform. This platform aims to empower students, educators, and educational institutions. Our goal is to create a decentralized environment where creative educational projects can receive financial support, providing assistance to students facing financial barriers and enabling small schools to request funding for infrastructure and program improvements. In response to the increasing demand for transparency and accountability in crowdfunding, our platform encourages collaboration among developers to enhance features and functionalities, all while offering a user-friendly interface through Web3 technology. The central focus is on fostering community involvement and attracting backing for educational initiatives, while also allowing the platform to evolve and scale efficiently with the benefits of Polygon's scalability
D. Mythili, M. Ganeshwari, Suleiman Ibrahim Shelash Mohammad, B. Anitha ¡ 6 authors
Crypto-tech is a technology secured by cryptography, which enables the exchange of data and facilitates duplicated and distributed transactions across the entire network of computer systems on the blockchain. This paper aims to study cryptocurrencyâs Awareness, perception, and impact among investors with special reference to Coimbatore city. This study will help provide baseline information on the factors influencing investors in cryptocurrency investing. The study found that cryptocurrency is likely to become the next financial platform due to the large amount of cryptocurrency flows in different systems, the huge increase and growth in cryptocurrency consumption and production, and the opportunities that cryptocurrency systems offer. And the level of awareness and preference in the use of cryptocurrency is moderate. However, investors are not yet fully aware of the dangers of using cryptocurrencies. Many cryptocurrency forms do not yet qualify for that level of trust. Investors should take extra precautionary measures when using cryptocurrency until it is well maintained. The future of the cryptocurrency concept is bright as there are many opportunities for positive change and progress in the e-business and e-payment sectors. As technology advances rapidly, cryptocurrency development continues.
Amir Hasan Hamadeh, Rasha Mohammad Nouraldeen, Rasha Mahboub, Mohamed Hashem
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of the two determinants of the technology acceptance model (TAM3), perceived ease of use (PEOU), and perceived usefulness (PU) on auditorsâ intention to adopt and use blockchain technology (BT) in Lebanon. This study also aims to investigate the moderating role of age on these associations to determine the antecedents of PU and PEOU. A sample of 332 auditors working in Lebanon was used to collect data and the analysis was conducted using the third version of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS3-SEM). Results show that perception of external control and computer self-efficacy significantly affect the PEOU. Job relevance and output quality are PU antecedents and positively influence the variable. In addition, PEOU and PU have a significant positive impact on auditorsâ intention to adopt BT. This shows that auditors in Lebanon are more inclined to adopt BT if they feel that BT does not require substantial effort and that BT provides tangible benefits to their work. According to the researchersâ knowledge, this study is the first to examine auditorsâ perception of using BT in one of the Middle Eastern countries, Lebanon, and the first to investigate the moderating role of age on the relationship between TAM3 determinants and auditorsâ intention to adopt BT. In addition, this study highlights the practical implications of adopting BT in auditing in Lebanon by pinpointing the need for training programs, collaboration between auditors and other departments, developing regulatory frameworks to enhance efficiency, and organizing awareness and educational campaigns. Additionally, investments in infrastructure are critical to facilitate the smooth implementation and adoption of BT. Furthermore, audit firms should organize workshops to educate auditors on the application and the benefits of BT, invest in upgrading the IT systems to be compatible with BT platforms, and provide case studies and pilot projects to promote confidence in BT adoption.
Purpose: The tourism industry is more and more turning to cutting-edge technologies to tackle issues concerning security, operational effectiveness, and confidence. The decentralized, transparent, and unchangeable characteristics of blockchain technology provide a revolutionary opportunity to improve these areas. This study investigates how blockchain can protect operational processes, secure data, and support service providers and regulators. This research explores the relationship between trust, technology adoption, and regulation by suggesting ways to incorporate blockchain in the tourism industry with a focus on both innovation and responsibility. Design/methodology/approach: The study used quantitative methods to survey 326 professionals in the tourism industry and frequent travelers to explore their interactions with tourism services based on blockchain technology. Data underwent analysis through the utilization of SPSS and SmartPLS 4. This method sought to comprehend the various viewpoints on the advantages and difficulties of incorporating BCT into their activities. Findings: This study Outcomes show the blockchain adoption is perceived. Although some believe that BCT has the potential to improve security and operational efficiency, there are also positive opinions on the matter. Both customers and providers agree on BCT's trustworthiness, however, they have differing opinions on privacy and security improvements. Moreover, the research highlights the crucial importance of regulatory enforcement in promoting blockchain adoption, as blockchain presents valuable chances for ensuring compliance and reducing risks. Implication: This study adds to the current knowledge by offering perspectives from service providers and customers on blockchain technology in the travel sector. It highlights the challenges of integrating new blockchain technologies and urges further research to tackle the raised issues, providing a fresh perspective on utilizing distributed ledger technologies to improve security and operational effectiveness
K. Kajol, Srijanani Devarakonda, Ranjit Singh, H. Kent Baker
Abstract Cryptocurrency has gained popularity as a potential new global payment method. It has the potential to be faster, cheaper, and more secure than existing payment networks, making it a game-changer in the global economy. However, more research is needed to identify the factors driving cryptocurrency adoption and understand its impact. We use social network analysis (SNA) to identify the influencing factors and reveal the impact of each on cryptocurrency adoption. Our analysis initially revealed 44 influential factors, which were later reduced to 25 factors, each exerting a different influence. Based on the SNA, we classify these factors into highly, moderately, and least influential categories. Discomfort and optimism are the most influential determinants of adoption. Moderately influential factors include trust, risk, relative advantage, social influence, and perceived behavioral control. Price/value, facilitating conditions, compatibility, and usefulness are the least influential. The factors affecting cryptocurrency adoption are interdependent. Our findings can help policymakers understand the factors influencing cryptocurrency adoption and aid in developing appropriate legal frameworks for cryptocurrency use.
Financial technologies and payment applications have revolutionized money flow recently, with cryptocurrencies offering decentralization, though still limited in transactional use. This study investigates the factors influencing the use of cryptocurrencies for business transactions in North Carolina (NC). This exploratory research utilizes an extended technology acceptance model (TAM) using survey data collected from 228 North Carolina residents and applying Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to find the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Our results indicate that perceived usefulness, social influence, and personal innovativeness significantly impact usersâ intentions to adopt cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange. A surprising finding is that ownership has a negative effect on the intention to use cryptos for business transactions. The findings imply that regulators and cryptocurrency issuers should make the system more useful, take full advantage of social media to promote cryptos, and encourage crypto holders to use cryptos for their intended utility rather than just as speculative instruments.
Carlos Heras Bernardino, Francisco CesĂĄrio, Carlos J. Costa, Manuela AparĂcio ¡ 5 authors
Blockchain technology is a distributed ledger that promises transformative changes across various sectors, yet its adoption and integrations in small and medium-sized organizations remain limited. This study investigates the factors that influence the adoption of blockchain technology, emphasizing the significance of Trust and Security as key moderators. Using a questionnaire distributed to a diverse group of employees and analyzing responses through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-PLS), we constructed a predictive model of blockchain adoption. Our analysis reveals that Performance Expectancy and Social Influence positively affect the intention to adopt blockchain, indicating that perceived effectiveness and peer support drive adoption. Trust significantly enhances this intention, underscoring the importance of confidence in the technology's reliability and security. Environmental Concerns present a barrier, suggesting sustainability perceptions can deter adoption. This study conclusively demonstrates that promoting trust, addressing environmental sustainability, and leveraging social influence are pivotal for accelerating blockchain adoption in small and medium-sized organizations.
The Blockchain technology as one of the newest technologies of the millennium is not only opening new opportunities in financial services but also may be implemented for optimal service delivery in Libraries since it is notable for being a reliable technology that helps with security, preservation and reliability of data. This paper takes a conceptual look at blockchain technology and where it can be applied in libraries for effective library services delivery in this digital era. The paper apart from taking a holistic look at the concept, also treated the features of the technology which revolves around the three main properties of blockchain technology: decentralization, transparency and immutability which have helped it gain wide spread acclaim as well as benefits of integrating blockchain technology in library operations which include that the technology has the potential to enhance library operations in areas as, digital preservation and tracking, community-based collections to share objects, tools and services, inter library loan and voucher system, library verification of credentials (information literacy) and also, library card and Archives/special collections where provenance and authenticity are essential with each sub-heading substantiated with image for clarity. After which, conclusion that blockchain technology has the potential for revolutionizing library management practices and that integrating blockchain into library practices may likely improve the state of security in libraries, enhance transparency and accessibility of library collections, transforming the bounders of digital preservation and intellectual property management was drawn and recommendations which include among others that before libraries launch blockchain technology, librarians should keep in mind blockchain project such as programmers, project management team and visionary staff from the libraries, resources and finance in that before launching blockchain technology, proper resources and finances are required noting that a blockchain solution for data alignment might be affordable and feasible if libraries have sufficient funds for the project were made.
Abstract Blockchain technology has a unique ability to automate accounting processes that are a part of regulatory requirements in all commercial enterprises. Moreover, it can hold verified accounting records and eliminate the need for a trusted third party. Despite blockchain's potential to transform the nature of traditional accountancy procedures, adoption by the accounting industry is somewhat limited. Knowledge in this domain is lacking, and research on the antecedents influencing the adoption of blockchain-based accounting systems is scarce. This study is rooted in the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework, presenting a trust-centric adoption model based on diligent analysis of blockchain and technology adoption literature. The model proposes that TOE factors mediate trust's role in adopting blockchain for accounting applications. The model was validated based on qualitative semi-structured interviews of twelve industry leaders and was comprehensively tested using a quantitative survey-based methodology with accounting professionals knowledgeable about blockchain technology. The data collected was analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results demonstrate the role of trust and the mediating effect of the theorized TOE variables on adopting blockchain-based accounting solutions. The results' implications for research and practice are discussed.
Cryptocurrencies are rapidly emerging as a novel virtual financial system with significant implications across various industries. This study systematically reviews the factors influencing cryptocurrency adoption, identifying key motivators and barriers that affect individualsâ decisions to embrace this technology. Our findings reveal that while there is increasing interest in cryptocurrencies, substantial gaps remain in understanding the underlying motivations for adoption and the disparities in acceptance across different regions. We categorize these gaps and propose future research directions aimed at bridging them. Ultimately, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of cryptocurrency adoption dynamics and highlights the need for more comprehensive studies in this evolving field.
This study investigates the influence of cryptocurrency advantages on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourists' future decisions in Thailand, a prime business travel destination. The research explores how cryptocurrency adoption affects tourists' propensity to use cryptocurrencies in the MICE industry. A sample of 394 MICE touristsâ data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via the Mplus program. The results indicate that transaction process (TP), price value (PV), and attitude (AT) significantly impact BTPB, which, in turn, influences future cryptocurrency adoption (FA) while transparency (TR) does not show any significant correlation with business travelers' perceived benefits (BTPB). This study guides travel and tourism stakeholders to enhance cryptocurrency adoption by improving transaction efficiency, security, regulatory clarity, and education, leveraging insights from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) frameworks. This study bridges fintech and sustainable tourism in the MICE industry, offering insights for policymakers and industry leaders to enhance financial systems through cryptocurrency, promoting global sustainable travel practices.
Open access
Digital Marketing and Social Media
Consumer Behavior in Brand Consumption and Identification
Abstract Organizations are adopting technological innovations to transform payment systems due to challenges with traditional methods, such as slow speed and high fees. These challenges have prompted a shift towards blockchainâbased cryptocurrencies. However, cryptocurrency adoption for payments remains limited, especially in Saudi Arabia. This study adapts the technology acceptance model to explore cryptocurrency adoption through the blockchainâbased cryptocurrency as a payment method in Saudi Arabia (BCAPâSA) model. Factors within the model are assessed using an experimental vignetteâtask methodology and surveys. A key component is an educational package, offering comprehensive materials to explain blockchain technology. The findings confirm the reliability of surveys. Most model factors are statistically significant in influencing usersâ intention to use cryptocurrency. The study finds that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and perceived trust significantly impact participantsâ intentions. Additionally, low transaction fees and age are the most influential factors on the technology acceptance model's core constructs. Statistical analysis indicates that decentralization and anonymity were insignificant and thus excluded from the revised BCAPâSA model. These findings highlight the potential to enhance cryptocurrency adoption in Saudi Arabia. The study's insights can guide strategies to promote wider cryptocurrency usage in the region.
Chuleeporn Changchit, Robert Cutshall, Long Pham, Eugene Bland
Cryptocurrencies, as a disruptive innovation in the financial sector, are reshaping traditional investment behaviors. Despite their growing adoption, many individuals remain hesitant to invest, influenced by both psychological and technological factors. This study integrates behavioral finance principles with the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), incorporating perceived security, perceived enjoyment, technology competency, and personality traits to examine their effects on cryptocurrency investment attitudes and intentions. Data from U.S. investors highlight how these factors shape investment decisions, with a particular focus on the moderating role of personality traits in the relationship between attitude and investment intention. Findings reveal that performance expectancy, perceived enjoyment, and perceived security significantly influence attitudes toward cryptocurrency investment and drive investment intention. Interestingly, openness negatively moderates this relationship, suggesting that individuals with high openness may be less likely to act on positive investment attitudes. However, other predictors including facilitating conditions, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism did not demonstrate any significant influence on investment attitudes or intentions. These insights contribute to the behavioral finance literature by highlighting how psychological and technological factors influence investment behavior. Practical implications extend to businesses, policymakers, and cryptocurrency platforms seeking to better understand and engage potential investors. Future research should explore additional behavioral and technological factors across diverse investor demographics and geographic contexts to further advance knowledge in this evolving field. ⢠Performance expectancy and security enhance cryptocurrency investment attitudes. ⢠Openness moderates the relationship between attitude and intention to invest. ⢠Technology competency and effort expectancy negatively affect investment attitude. ⢠Perceived enjoyment drives positive attitudes toward cryptocurrency investment. ⢠Study integrates UTAUT with personality traits to explain cryptocurrency behavior.
The rise of cryptocurrencies, powered by blockchain technology, shifts trust from centralized institutions to technology itself. However, the drivers of trust in cryptocurrency adoption (CA) remain unclear, with existing models like commitmentâtrust theory, trust in technology, and digital trust insufficiently addressing decentralized systems. To bridge this gap, this study integrates the taskâtechnology fit (TTF) framework and fiveâfactor theory (FFT) into a comprehensive cryptocurrency trust model. TTF explains how blockchain featuresâsecurity, transparency, traceability, price value, and transaction speedâimpact technology characteristics (TCs), while FFT captures user characteristics (UCs), including psychological and behavioral dimensions, essential for trust development. Analyzing survey data from 200 participants using structural equation modeling (SEM), the findings highlight the mediating role of crypto trust (CT) between TC, UC, and external environmental factors (EX) in driving CA. CT mitigates concerns about fraud, security breaches, and reliability, transforming technological and individual readiness into adoption, particularly in unregulated markets like Vietnam. This study updates trust frameworks by integrating TTF and FFT, emphasizing the need for trustâbuilding strategies, technological transparency, and regulatory clarity. In particular, the findings underscore that clear, supportive, and consistent regulatory policies are essential for legitimizing cryptocurrency use, reducing uncertainty, and indirectly fostering user trust. These insights provide concrete policy directions for governments seeking to enhance adoption in decentralized financial systems while ensuring public protection and market stability.
Potential benefits of utilizing blockchain-smart contracts technologies are relatively known for improving SN visibility and traceability. However, utilization of blockchain and smart contracts in integration with Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) infrastructures of supply networks (SN) partners for advanced business intelligence (BI) and inter-company collaboration is an immature research field. This study investigates how blockchain and smart contracts can complement existing ERP foundations of SN partners for advanced BI and collaborative reporting based on a conceptual comparative study. After identifying main configuration dimensions of privacy setting (public/private/consortium), smart contract utilization for business logic implementation (full/none) and degree of transactional data decentralization (full/only critical data/none), 18 deployment scenarios are developed for advanced SN collaboration. Scenarios are then analyzed, mapped with SN collaboration maturity stages, and assessed in terms of various critical SN capabilities such as visibility, traceability, flexibility and scalability. Study is unique in providing a comprehensive treatment of the topic and mappings offered from supply network management (SNM) perspective. Findings reveal that use of blockchain technologies and smart contracts enhances critical SN capabilities and supports higher levels of collaboration maturity as compared to the baseline ERP-centric integration scenario. Some deployment scenarios support collaborative settings in make-to-order production environments, whereas others embrace relatively larger networks not as collaborative, targeting repetitive production settings.