Mapping the Landscape of Digital Financial Services: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims to achieve several objectives within the field of Digital Financial Services. It identifies influential authors and journals, assesses their contributions, and reveals research areas, document types, leading affiliations, and countries contributing significantly. It also explores keyword and citation networks to understand evolving research trends.
Design/Methodology: This comprehensive bibliometric analysis focuses on Scopus database papers from 2008 to 2023. Data from 1628 documents was collected and analyzed for various bibliometric indicators, including annual growth rate, document age, citations, references, authorship patterns, and document types.
Findings: Zhang Y leads in digital financial services publications, suggesting their significant influence. "Sustainability (Switzerland)" and "Technological Forecasting and Social Change" demonstrate impactful research venues. The USA holds the highest citation count despite China's prolific output, implying differing citation practices. Network analysis enriches insights through diverse connections among research elements.
Social Implications: Understanding digital financial services research dynamics informs policymakers, industry professionals, and financial institutions about the evolving landscape and emerging areas in digital finance with broader societal implications.
Originality/Value: This study's originality lies in its comprehensive bibliometric analysis of digital financial services research. It offers a detailed overview of the field's development, key contributors, and emerging trends. The findings contribute to existing digital finance knowledge and provide a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners.