FinTech for Financial Inclusion: A Comprehensive Review, Integrative Framework, and Bibliometric Analysis

Slimane Ed‐Dafali et al.

Journal of Economic Surveys2026https://doi.org/10.1111/joes.70061article
AJG 2ABDC A
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Over two decades, financial inclusion and FinTech have been crucial topics for researchers and institutions. Financial technology companies are developing advanced financial services and products to improve the financial inclusion of many people. Nevertheless, a considerable number of people still don't benefit from the basic financial services. This article aims to define the evolution of scientific research on “FinTech” and “financial inclusion” through a bibliometric review and thematic analysis of 567 publications. The study identified key insights in terms of articles, authors’ productivity, most studied countries, main theories used, journal performance, and five thematic clusters enabling researchers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field. To synthesize these insights, we propose two integrative conceptual frameworks to advance the field. We also explored the different implications of financial inclusion for disadvantaged populations, helping policymakers to develop coherent cross‐sectoral strategies to address the challenges and harness the synergies and benefits of this dynamic field.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/joes.70061

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@article{slimane2026,
  title        = {{FinTech for Financial Inclusion: A Comprehensive Review, Integrative Framework, and Bibliometric Analysis}},
  author       = {Slimane Ed‐Dafali et al.},
  journal      = {Journal of Economic Surveys},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/joes.70061},
}

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.