Gender Differences in the Usage of Online Banking Services

Abstract

The rise of online banking has transformed the global financial landscape, particularly in developing countries like Sri Lanka, where the adoption of digital banking is increasing. This study investigates gender differences in the usage of online banking services in Sri Lanka, with special reference to the Balangoda Divisional Secretariat Division. The objective is to identify whether there are significant differences between male and female users in terms of their usage of online banking services. A quantitative methodology was employed, with data collected from a sample of 382 bank customers in the Balangoda Divisional Secretariat Division. A structured questionnaire and interviews were used to gather primary data, while secondary data were sourced from previous studies and reports. The Independent sample t-test was conducted to analyze gender differences, with the results indicating a statistically significant difference between male and female users. These findings suggest that gender influences online banking behavior in Sri Lanka. Therefore, based on these results, the study recommends that financial institutions and policymakers design gender-sensitive strategies to enhance digital literacy and improve the security of online banking platforms. This will help foster greater inclusivity and bridge the gender gap in digital financial services. Further research is needed to explore how other socio-cultural factors, such as ethnicity and geographic location, might influence online banking usage in Sri Lanka.