Fintech Adoption and Audit Quality: Evidence from Commercial Banks in Eswatini

Purpose: This study assessed the effects of fintech adoption on audit quality of commercial banks in Eswatini, focusing specifically on Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), mobile banking, and internet banking platforms. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed a quantitative, correlational, and cross-sectional research design. Primary data were gathered using a structured five-point Likert scale questionnaire administered to internal auditors from the four commercial banks in Eswatini and external auditors from two leading audit firms in Eswatini. Hypotheses were tested using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis. Findings: Results revealed that all the three investigated fintech tools (ATMs, Mobile banking and Internet banking) have a significant positive effect on audit quality. ATM adoption had significant effect on audit quality. Mobile banking adoption showed a significant positive effect on audit quality. Internet banking adoption had a significant effect on audit quality. Implications: The study provides empirical evidence that fintech integration strengthens audit trails, enhances internal control verification, and reduces information asymmetry in emerging banking sectors. It offers policy insights for bank managers and regulatory authorities to pair technological expansion with robust risk management frameworks.