Research on Regional Differences and Spatial Effects of Inclusive Finance Driven by Financial Technology

This study constructs a fintech and inclusive finance evaluation system using principal component analysis and the entropy method, and conducts empirical research based on provincial panel data in China through spatial econometric models. The findings reveal that fintech significantly promotes inclusive finance development but exhibits regional heterogeneity, with stronger effects in eastern and western regions compared to central areas. Education level, communication infrastructure, and the proportion of tertiary industry are identified as key driving factors. Spatial analysis indicates the formation of "high-high" agglomeration zones in eastern coastal regions, while central and western areas demonstrate "low-low" development challenges. The study innovatively uncovers the spatial spillover mechanism through which fintech drives inclusive finance, providing a basis for formulating differentiated policies.