The adaptation of a cashless economy in Malta

Abstract

Digitalisation is paving the way for an era of contactless, cashless, quick, and stable advanced installments. Increased adaptability of this mechanism could be achieved by educating the consumer and promoting the best climate for digital payments. Financial inclusion must therefore be seen as a tool for achieving economic development. The aim of this research is to gain a better understanding of the difficulties Maltese people may face in adapting to a cashless payment culture. Data was compiled and translated into statistics using a quantitative exploration in order to perform numerical analyses and draw conclusions. By circulating questionnaires to Maltese residents, data was gathered to analyse their opinions, perceptions, and ideas, as well as to determine whether or not they are aware of cashless payments. Apart from determining people's aversion to cashless society, this research delves into whether people would be able to use cashless payments if they had the opportunity to learn more about them. This is accomplished by analysing the main observations gathered from Maltese citizens of various age, occupation, residence, and environment. Taking Malta's perspective, this study identifies the difficulties and benefits of going cashless, as well as some other general insights into the subject. Findings reveal that although cash will still be important by the time the younger generation becomes the older generation, cashless options will be much more popular than they are now. As a result, it is expected that Malta will heed the advice of other countries by implementing more cashless-based systems, if not significantly reducing cash. Recommendations and suggestions based on present implications are also identified.