An examination of the role of digitalisation in credit unions in Ireland

Advances in financial technology (Fintech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have resulted in a range of products designed to improve financial services to customers. Research has and is examining the impact of this innovation on for-profit financial institutions and their stakeholders. However, few studies have investigated the impact of digital innovation on non-profit financial institutions, such as credit unions. Yet these financial institutions, which have both social and economic objectives, are of increasing importance within local communities due to the withdrawal of physical bank branches, their financial outreach role during COVID-19 and the commitment by government to SDG 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere. 

Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the role of digitalisation in improving financial inclusion within credit unions on the island of Ireland.