How to drive sustainable economic development: The role of fintech, natural resources, and social vulnerability

The advancement of digital technology, the deepening of economic globalization, and the escalating geopolitical tensions have heightened the focus of policymakers and researchers on fostering sustainable economic development. Employing an analytical framework of "DrivingForce-State-Response," this study aims to investigate the impact of fintech, natural resources, and social vulnerability on sustainable economic development. Utilizing the AHP and TOPSIS models alongside cross-sectional data from the 31 provinces of mainland China in 2022, the research reveals that the eastern region exhibits the highest level of sustainable economic development, trailed by the central region, with the western region lagging behind. Notably, capital input in financial technology, the natural resource conversion rate, and social resilience emerge as pivotal factors driving sustainable economic progress across the three dimensions.These may include initiatives to enhance capital investment in fintech, optimize resource conversion practices, and bolster social resilience through targeted interventions such as healthcare, education, and social assistance programs. Additionally, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among regions could help mitigate disparities and promote inclusive growth across the mainland.