EFFECT OF MOBILE PAYMENT APPS ON SPENDING HABITS OF COLLEGE STUDENTS

The rapid growth of digital financial technologies, particularly mobile payment applications such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm, has significantly transformed consumer spending behavior, especially among college students. This study aims to examine the effect of mobile payment apps on students’ spending habits, with a focus on transaction frequency, impulsive buying, and financial awareness. A quantitative research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 150 college students using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation techniques. The findings indicate that the convenience, speed, and promotional incentives of mobile payment apps encourage frequent transactions and impulsive spending. Features such as cashback and seamless accessibility reduce the psychological barrier of spending, leading to less controlled financial behavior. However, some students demonstrated moderate financial awareness by using in-app tracking tools. The study concludes that while mobile payment applications enhance transaction efficiency and ease of use, they also contribute to increased spending tendencies among college students. It emphasizes the need for improved financial literacy and responsible usage practices to ensure better financial management among young users.