Cash in Circulation (CIC) and Digital transformation in Egypt

Ali, Prof. Sherief Mohammed; Nour Eldin, Prof. Gehad Ahmed; Mohammed, Hossam Eldin Ahmed

doi:10.21608/masf.2024.413744

Cash in Circulation (CIC) and Digital transformation in Egypt

نوع المستند : المقالة الأصلية

المؤلفون

¹ Professor of economics - Economics and Public finance Department Former Vice President of the University for Education and Student Affairs Former dean of faculty of commerce University of Sadat city

² Assistant Professor and head of Economics and Public finance Department Faculty of Commerce- University of Sadat City

³ Assistant Lecturer- Economics and Public finance Department Faculty of Commerce- University of Sadat City

10.21608/masf.2024.413744

المستخلص

This study explores the impact of digital transformation on cash in circulation (CIC) in Egypt between 2004 and 2023, examining how advancements in electronic payment systems, mobile banking, and fintech innovation have influenced the demand for physical currency. The study is anchored in a comprehensive econometric analysis, utilizing Vector Error Correction Models (VECM) to capture both the short-term and long-term dynamics between CIC and key macroeconomic variables, including GDP per capita, inflation, interest rates, and points of sale (POS) as a proxy for digital payment infrastructure.
The findings indicate a significant long-term relationship between digital transformation and a reduction in cash circulation, particularly driven by the expansion of POS systems. However, the study also reveals short-term fluctuations in cash demand, influenced by interest rates and economic conditions. Despite the growing adoption of digital payments, cash remains resilient, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. This study concludes that while digital transformation is reshaping Egypt’s financial landscape, cash continues to play a crucial role in the economy.