FinTech and financial inclusion in emerging markets: a bibliometric analysis and future research agenda

Purpose The purpose of this article is to explore how FinTech is transforming financial inclusion in emerging markets through a detailed bibliometric analysis. The study identifies key research trends, themes and gaps, providing both theoretical insights and practical recommendations for policymakers and financial institutions. By integrating FinTech into established models of financial inclusion, the article highlights its potential to drive inclusive economic growth. Additionally, it proposes a future research agenda to address emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the impact of FinTech on financial inclusion in developing regions is fully realized. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine the existing literature on FinTech and financial inclusion in emerging markets. Using data from the Scopus database, the analysis focuses on identifying key trends, research themes and gaps within the field. The methodology includes performance analysis to determine the most prolific authors, institutions and countries, as well as science mapping to visualize the intellectual structure and thematic evolution. The combination of quantitative bibliometric techniques and qualitative content analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape and informs the proposed future research agenda. Findings The findings reveal that FinTech is significantly advancing financial inclusion in emerging markets, with research increasingly focusing on mobile banking, peer-to-peer lending and blockchain technologies. The analysis identifies China, the USA and the UK as leading contributors to this research. Key themes include the role of FinTech in reducing financial barriers and promoting economic development. However, gaps remain in understanding the long-term impacts of FinTech on financial stability and the specific needs of marginalized populations. The study highlights the need for more targeted research to fully leverage FinTech's potential in driving inclusive growth in developing regions. Originality/value This study provides a unique contribution by offering a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of FinTech's role in financial inclusion, specifically within the context of emerging markets. Unlike previous studies that focus on individual technologies or regions, this research systematically maps the global research landscape, identifying key trends, gaps and future research opportunities. The involvement of Dr Petterson Ozili, an expert from the Central Bank of Nigeria, adds significant value, ensuring the analysis is both relevant and informed by practical expertise. This paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers and practitioners aiming to leverage FinTech for inclusive economic growth.