Digital Economy, Natural Endowments, and Regional Economic Growth: A Moderating Effect Analysis Based on Multilevel Models

This study examines the impact of the digital economy and natural resources on economic growth using a hierarchical linear model and provincial-level data from China (1998–2022). Data is treated as a production factor, while digital technology and natural resources influence total factor productivity. The findings reveal a significantly positive within-group effect, a marginally significant between-group effect, and a significant cross-level moderating effect of natural resources, whereas the level-two moderating effect is not significant. To foster economic growth, regions should develop tailored digital economy strategies aligned with their natural resource endowments. JEL codes: O33 O44 Q32 R11