
The inaugural Digital Economy Trust Index, launched by Checkout.com, has unveiled a significant correlation between consumer trust in digital platforms and national GDP growth rates from 2014 to 2024. This groundbreaking index ranks 16 countries based on consumer perceptions of security, transparency, and user experience in the digital economy, highlighting the pivotal role of digital trust in fostering economic expansion.
China emerges at the forefront of the rankings with a trust rating of 8.6 out of 10, closely followed by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. This ranking underscores the varying levels of consumer confidence across regions, with Japan, despite its high digitization rates, scoring the lowest at 2.6. The findings suggest that trust in digital systems is a critical driver of economic growth, transcending mere technological adoption.
Australia's inclusion in the top 10 reflects its advanced fintech ecosystem and robust data protection measures, which have bolstered consumer trust in digital transactions. The index serves as a vital tool for businesses, policymakers, and technology providers, offering insights into the factors that influence digital trust and how it can be enhanced to stimulate broader economic benefits.
The Digital Economy Trust Index not only maps the current landscape of digital trust across the globe but also sets a benchmark for future assessments. As digital economies continue to evolve, the index will play a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of consumer confidence and its impact on economic growth, guiding stakeholders in their efforts to build more trustworthy and resilient digital ecosystems.

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