Objective - Digitalization has permeated all aspects of life. Governments worldwide recognize its benefits and actively work to provide a conducive digital environment. As such, scholars generally focus on the positive effect of institutional variables on digitalization at the national level.

Methodology/Technique - Unfortunately, little is known about the role of informal institutional factors. Here, this study investigates the effect of national culture on the level of digitalization across 70 countries.

Finding - Furthermore, it also considers trust as a moderator of the relationship. Analyzing DiGiX and Hofstede Cultural Dimension data, the results indicate that individualism and long-term orientation exhibit a positive relationship with the level of digitalization, whereas uncertainty avoidance displays a negative relationship.

Novelty - Overall, the research advances the literature on the critical influence of culture on digitalization in the world today.

Type of Paper - Empirical

Keywords: National culture, Digitalization, Trust, Hofstede.

JEL Classification: F52, O33.

URI: http://gatrenterprise.com/GATRJournals/GJBSSR/vol13.1_1.html

DOI: https://doi.org/10.35609/gjbssr.2025.13.1(1)

Pages 01–11