Blockchain Papers

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 auditors’ 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 auditors’ 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 researchers’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine auditors’ 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 auditors’ 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.

Santhosh Kumar S, Navya Gubbi Sateeshchandra, Kaddour Chelabi, Nereida Hadžiahmetović · 6 authors

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.

Yanlin Li, Yung Po Tsang, Danny C. K. Ho, Mucahit Ozden · 6 authors

The rise of blockchain technology has introduced Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) as innovative tools in digital marketing, yet consumer resistance hinders their widespread adoption. This study applies innovation resistance theory to investigate the barriers to NFT marketing adoption, as well as the moderating role of consumer knowledge. Using a dual-method framework, Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) of survey data (n=610) and insights from eight large language models identify perceived risk as the primary barrier, amplified by higher consumer knowledge. As the first study combining empirical analysis with AI-driven insights, it provides actionable strategies to mitigate resistance and advance blockchain-based marketing.

Shakir Ullah

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 users’ 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 Cesário, Carlos J. Costa, Manuela Aparício · 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.

Nir Kshetri

In this chapter, we provide details of key enablers of Web3 and the metaverse. It will discuss how several new technologies that are enabling the vision of Web3 and the metaverse, such as AR and VR headsets, are becoming cheaper and more powerful, leading to improved user experience. It discusses major opportunities that can result from Web3 and the metaverse. It provides a perspective on the roles of the metaverse in enhancing branding, empowering consumers, and increasing customer satisfaction with services. This chapter also highlights the various challenges that Web3 and the metaverse face. It discusses how human resources-related challenges and technical constraints can hinder the success of Web3 and the metaverse. It also offers an overview of the lack of standards and standardization to ensure interoperability within the metaverse ecosystem.

Cong Doanh Duong, Thanh Hieu Nguyen, Thi Viet Nga Ngo, Thu Van Bui · 5 authors

Purpose The current study aims to investigate the impact of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on consumers’ intention to purchase organic food. This study examines how perceived blockchain- related information transparency, directly and indirectly, affects purchase intentions through attitudes, perceived behavioural control and subjective norms. Additionally, the study explores how blockchain-based trust moderates the influence of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on these factors and the intention to purchase organic food. Design/methodology/approach Based on the theory of planned behaviour framework and a sample of 5,326 consumers, this study uses partial least squares structural equation modelling to test the research model. Findings This study finds that perceived blockchain-related information transparency directly enhances consumers’ attitudes towards organic food purchase, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms and intention to purchase organic food. Additionally, perceived blockchain-related information transparency indirectly affects consumers’ intention to buy organic food through three antecedents of the theory of planned behaviour model. Notably, these indirect effects were moderated by consumers’ blockchain-based trust. Practical implications This study provides recommendations for leveraging blockchain to enhance transparency and build trust, which could boost consumer engagement and organic food purchases. Originality/value This research contributes to blockchain literature by empirically examining the role of perceived blockchain-related transparency and blockchain-based trust in consumers’ purchasing decisions regarding organic food. It provides valuable insights into the consumer-centric benefits of blockchain technology. Furthermore, this study also contributes to the literature on organic food, particularly its promotion through blockchain technology.

Emmanuel Chidiadi Onwubiko

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.

Cong Gao, Kay-Hooi Keoy, Ai‐Fen Lim

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the primary determinants influencing the acceptance of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) adoption within Blockchain-enabled environments. Further research will examine the impact of GAI adoption on supply chain efficiency (SCE) through the enhancement of Blockchain. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on innovation diffusion theory (IDT), this study used partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to look into the hypotheses. The data were gathered via online questionnaires from employers of Chinese supply chain enterprises that have already integrated Blockchain. Findings The findings of this study demonstrate that relative advantages (RAs), compatibility, trialability and observability have a significant positive effect on GAI adoption, while complexity harms GAI adoption. Above all, the GAI adoption has significantly enhanced Blockchain, thus effectively improving SCE. Practical implications The outcomes from this study furnish enterprises and organizations with valuable insights to proficiently integrate GAI and Blockchain capability, optimize supply chain management and bolster market competitiveness. Also, this study will help accelerate the successful integration of business processes and attain Sustainability Development Goals 9, industrial growth and industrial diversification. Originality/value To the extent of the author’s knowledge, the current status of the GAI study remains largely exploratory, and there is limited empirical evidence on integrating Blockchain capability and GAI. This research bridges the knowledge gap by fully revealing the optimal integration of these two transformative technologies to leverage their potential advantages in supply chain management.

Sujata Seshadrinathan, Shalini Chandra

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.

Rayenda Khresna Brahmana, Maria Kontesa

Purpose This research aims to examine how financial literacy moderates the mediation of attitude toward virtual influencers’ non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or ATB on the relationship between purchase intention and self-congruity, which includes symbolic representation, self-image congruence and emotional value. Initially, we investigated the mediation effect of ATB on the relationship between self-congruity and purchase intention. Subsequently, we analyze how financial literacy moderates this mediation process. Design/methodology/approach The study employed a sample of 383 virtual influencers’ fans and applied a partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) along with robustness tests to test the research hypothesis. The analysis is based on the moderated mediation framework. Findings The findings are intriguing for several reasons. First, it reveals that only self-image congruence positively affects purchase intention, contrary to existing self-congruity theory literature. The relationship between self-image congruence and purchase intention is a direct relationship with no mediation effect of ATB. Second, ATB fails to mediate the self-congruity effect on purchase intention. Third, financial literacy has a negative relationship with purchase intention, indicating that fans of virtual influencers with higher financial literacy are less likely to purchase virtual influencers’ NFTs due to more critical investment evaluations. We also argue that financial literacy discards the consumption behavior effect from self-congruity variables on purchase intention. Research limitations/implications The study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the significance of financial literacy on purchase intention under the self-congruity framework. It also surmises that self-image congruence does matter for the purchase intention of a virtual influencer’s NFT. However, further research could validate findings by studying broader NFT investors, incorporating fandom and impulse buying variables and examining actual NFT purchases against planned behavior. Practical implications This research is crucial for virtual influencers’ NFT creators, marketers and fans by providing insights for evaluating virtual influencers’ creators’ decision to pursue NFT markets. The findings reveal that the creators of virtual influencers should reconsider pursuing the NFT market, as self-congruity may not be a driving factor. Notably, our findings imply that a virtual influencer’s NFT is significantly different from a virtual influencer's merchandising business. Originality/value The originality of this study lies in extending the self-congruity within the NFT context, investigating how financial literacy moderates the mediation of ATB on the self-congruity-purchase intention relationship. It challenges self-congruity theory by showing that despite fans feeling aligned with virtual influencers, high financial literacy reduces the congruence.

Tran Le Nguyen, Van Kien Pham, Linh Le Phuong Giao

Cryptocurrencies have become mainstream financial instruments, yet adoption remains uneven in emerging markets such as Vietnam, where rapid digitalization and regulatory uncertainty shape user behavior. Existing studies either use behavioral models that offer theoretical clarity but assume linear effects, or machine learning models that capture complexity but lack interpretability. This study combines behavioral theory with explainable artificial intelligence to examine cryptocurrency adoption in Vietnam using survey data from 1,039 respondents. Ten supervised learning algorithms were tested through repeated cross validation, and Random Forest delivered the highest accuracy. SHapley Additive exPlanations were used to interpret model outputs. Results show that trust, perceived usefulness, behavioral control, and financial literacy are key predictors, while perceived risk follows a curvilinear pattern. Interaction analysis reveals that usefulness rises with stronger behavioral control, and trust reduces risk only to a certain point. The study offers a theory informed and interpretable machine learning framework.Cryptocurrencies have become mainstream financial instruments, yet adoption remains uneven in emerging markets such as Vietnam, where rapid digitalization and regulatory uncertainty shape user behavior. Existing studies either use behavioral models that offer theoretical clarity but assume linear effects, or machine learning models that capture complexity but lack interpretability. This study combines behavioral theory with explainable artificial intelligence to examine cryptocurrency adoption in Vietnam using survey data from 1,039 respondents. Ten supervised learning algorithms were tested through repeated cross validation, and Random Forest delivered the highest accuracy. SHapley Additive exPlanations were used to interpret model outputs. Results show that trust, perceived usefulness, behavioral control, and financial literacy are key predictors, while perceived risk follows a curvilinear pattern. Interaction analysis reveals that usefulness rises with stronger behavioral control, and trust reduces risk only to a certain point. The study offers a theory informed and interpretable machine learning framework.

Sharmi Thambirajan, Kinslin Devaraj

The rise of digital payments enhances global internet and mobile usage. However, there are still issues with customer satisfaction in mobile e-banking. This study examines how mobile banking service quality impacts customer satisfaction, detects hackers, and offers solutions for improvement through blockchain integration. This study compares artificial neural network performance with ML models like naive Bayes and XGBoost. The validated data is first sent to cloud for verification, and then securely stored on blockchain to protect customer information. The study uses ANN, a DL model to reduce hacking and ensure secure transactions for enhanced security. The proposed approach is implemented using Python platform and Ethereum tool. The study shows that the ANN model outperforms the ML models in terms of security, achieving an accuracy rate of 99.44%, making the proposed model ideal for e-banking applications. This approach not only enhances security against hacking but also builds customer trust and satisfaction.

Mitra Madanchian, Nachaat Mohamed, Hamed Taherdoost

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 individuals’ 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.

jaemin jung, Byoung Ki Seo

No abstract is available for this record.

Ahmad H. Juma’h, Yazan Alnsour, Hasan Kartal

No abstract is available for this record.

Maruding Mareh, Laphassawat Subphonkulanan, Wanamina Bostan Ali, Md. Mahmudul Alam · 5 authors

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 tourists’ 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.

Leonardo Maria De Rossi, Nico Abbatemarco

No abstract is available for this record.

Ahmed Alrehaili, Martin White, Natalia Beloff

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 blockchain‐based 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 blockchain‐based cryptocurrency as a payment method in Saudi Arabia (BCAP‐SA) model. Factors within the model are assessed using an experimental vignette‐task 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 users’ intention to use cryptocurrency. The study finds that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and perceived trust significantly impact participants’ 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 BCAP‐SA 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.

Tran Le Nguyen, Van Kien Pham, Thi Thuy Dung Pham

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 commitment‐trust theory, trust in technology, and digital trust insufficiently addressing decentralized systems. To bridge this gap, this study integrates the task‐technology fit (TTF) framework and five‐factor theory (FFT) into a comprehensive cryptocurrency trust model. TTF explains how blockchain features—security, transparency, traceability, price value, and transaction speed—impact 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 trust‐building 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.

Kaung Myat Kyaw

No abstract is available for this record.

Imelda T. Angeles

No abstract is available for this record.