Abstract:

The increasing prevalence of online gambling has raised significant concern over its potential to influence individual financial decision-making and lead to problematic investment tendencies. This study examines the effect of online gambling on problematic investment, with financial literacy tested as a moderating factor. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 77 respondents in Indonesia through an online questionnaire distributed via social media platforms. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that online gambling has a substantial positive effect on problematic investment. Meanwhile, financial literacy has no substantial direct impact on problematic investment and does not moderate the relationship between the two variables. These findings indicate that frequent engagement in online gambling increases the likelihood of irrational or impulsive investment decisions, while financial knowledge alone is insufficient to prevent such outcomes. The study highlights the importance of integrating financial education with psychological awareness to strengthen responsible financial practices in digital contexts.