Abstract
A scarce literature guides the examination of FinTech adoption on SMEs' sustainable performance via the mediation of green finance on green innovation, with the moderating effect of ESGTL and green innovation strategy. Data were collected from 250 SME managers and owners from Pakistan and Malaysia for comparative perspectives, and CB-SEM was applied for data analysis. Results revealed FA's significant effect on SMEs' SP in both countries. GF partially mediates the effect of FA on GI in Malaysia, whereas complete mediation prevails between the constructs in Pakistan. GI fully mediates the effect of GF and SP in both countries. Higher involvement in green innovation strategy moderates the increase in the changes to focus on green finance practices. The higher commitment to ESGTL increases the influence of green financing on green innovation applications in both countries. Lastly, ESGTL improves green innovation's role in attaining sustainable performance for Malaysian SMEs compared to Pakistan. Findings contribute to the enduring literature on fintech and the sustainable performance of SME firms from the perspective of growing economies. Furthermore, it confirms the importance of FA, GF, and GI in enhancing the SP of SME firms, and in due course, confirms the sustainable financial advancement of a country.