Research Horizon
Vol. 6 No. 1 (2026): Research Horizon - February 2026

Hedonic Value and Performance Expectancy on Gen-Z’s Interest in Using the PayLater Application with Platform Trust Moderation

Widiya, Erlani (Unknown)
Priyastiwi, Priyastiwi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital financial services has made paylater applications popular among Generation Z, driven by both functional benefits and emotional trust, yet posing risks of consumptive behavior and financial problems. This study examines the influence of hedonic value and performance expectancy Generation Z’s interest in using paylater applications, with platform trust as a moderating variable. A quantitative approach was employed, targeting 155 respondents aged 18–27 in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via Likert-scale questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) with SmartPLS 4. The results indicate that performance expectancy positively and significantly influences interest in using paylater applications, while hedonic value does not show a significant effect. Moreover, trust in digital paylater platforms negatively moderates the effect of performance expectancy on user interest. These findings highlight that perceived functional benefits are the main driver of Generation Z’s adoption of paylater services, providing insights for digital finance providers to enhance user engagement responsibly. The study implies that providers should design paylater services that balance user convenience and enjoyment with mechanisms that promote responsible financial behavior.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

RH

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

The journal aims to make significant contributions to applied research and knowledge across the globe through the publication of original and high-quality research articles. It publishes original research articles, reviews, mini-reviews, case reports, letters to the editor, and commentaries, thereby ...