Psychological Capital, Financial Literacy and Innovative Behavior among Fintech Lending Employees in Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

Aims: This study investigates the moderating role of financial literacy in the relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and innovative behavior among employees of fintech lending companies in Bandung, Indonesia. The research explores whether financial literacy strengthens or weakens the influence of hope, efficacy, resilience and optimism on employees ability to generate and implement innovative ideas. Study Design:  This quantitative causal study used a cross-sectional survey design to test the hypotheses empirically through statistical modeling. Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out among employees of fintech lending companies in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, between May and October 2025. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted with employees from several fintech lending companies. Data were collected through an online questionnaire measuring psychological capital, financial literacy, and innovative behavior using validated Likert scale instruments. The relationships among the variables were examined using structural equation modeling. Results: The study finds that both psychological capital and financial literacy independently enhance employee behavior. However, financial literacy does not intensify the effect of psychological capital as initially expected. Instead, it slightly reduces the strength of this relationship, suggesting shifting focus toward analytical or technical considerations. Conclusion: Both psychological capital and financial literacy independently enhance innovative behavior among fintech employees. However, the interaction suggests that excessive technical focus may reduce creative risk-taking, thereby weakening the role of psychological capital in fostering innovation. These findings imply that fintech companies should balance the development of employees’ psychological and financial competencies to cultivate sustainable innovation.