THE ROLE OF ONLINE AND MOBILE BANKING IN THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE BANKING SECTOR
Keywords:
digital banking; mobile banking; financial inclusion; fintech; banking transformation; Uzbekistan; online banking; cost efficiencyAbstract
This article investigates the transformative role of online and mobile banking in reshaping the global banking sector (2018–2023). Drawing on data from the World Bank, Statista, and McKinsey & Company, the study demonstrates that mobile banking users grew from 1.2 billion in 2018 to 3.6 billion in 2023 — a 200% increase. The findings show that digital banking reduces transaction costs by up to 96% compared to branch banking, accelerates financial inclusion in developing economies, and drives significant efficiency gains for commercial banks. The paper also identifies major challenges: cybersecurity threats, the digital divide, and regulatory gaps. Conclusions are supported by statistical tables, trend analysis, and a focused case study of Uzbekistan's banking digitalisation.