We explored lenders' decision-making processes in online peer-to-peer (P2P) lending by drawing on trust theory and the valence framework to develop an integrated decisionmaking model, which we then tested empirically using data from a survey conducted with 474 online lenders in China.
The results showed that initial trust and perceived benefit determined willingness to lend, and that the fear of borrower opportunism did not have a significant impact on this willingness. Initial trust increased willingness to lend both directly and indirectly, increased it by increasing
perceived benefit. We have identified the specific features of online P2P lending and provided valuable insights for borrowers, lenders, and intermediaries.
Online discussion forums are computer-mediated social networks where individuals self-organise to help each other and share knowledge, advice, and perspectives about their common interests. The present study empirically examines the dynamics and changes to the properties and structure of an electronic network based on an online forum during a massive earthquake. This study found that the open, fluid electronic network allowed members easily to join and participate in the forum communication. The communication links and the numbers of initiators and repliers increased during the earthquake. We also found that network density and reciprocity decreased along with the network growth, while the average shortest path length increased. This research provides a framework to study dynamics and changes of electronic networks.
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