This study investigates the factors influencing Chinese university students’ intention to adopt the eCNY, China’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). While the eCNY has gained traction domestically, its potential for cross-border transactions and global reach necessitates understanding user acceptance. Focusing on the perspectives of potential users, this research examines the influence of perceived value, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived safety, and transaction processing functionality on intention to use eCNY. A survey was conducted among Chinese university students who expressed interest in research, resulting in 291 usable responses. Data analysis using SPSS revealed significant positive relationships between the independent variables and the dependent variable. Moreover, perceived usefulness emerged as a crucial mediator in this relationship, highlighting its importance in shaping user acceptance. The findings suggest that fostering positive perceptions of eCNY’s value, ease of use, safety, usefulness and transaction processing functionality, particularly among younger generations, is essential for successful adoption and wider societal acceptance of this digital currency. The study offers both theoretical and practical implications for promoting the adoption of CBDCs, particularly within the context of China’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
KeywordsDigital CurrencyeCNYBlockchaineCNY APP
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