Mapping the Landscape of Personal Finance Research in Developing Countries: A Bibliometric Perspective

Abstract

Introduction: This study presents the first comprehensive bibliometric mapping of research on personal finance, financial education, and financial inclusion in developing countries between 2007 and 2023. Methodology: Through the analysis of 83 articles indexed in Web of Science and the use of VOSviewer and Bibliometrix, temporal trends, collaboration networks, and thematic clusters were examined. Results: The results show a sustained growth in scientific production, concentrated in a few countries—mainly the United States, India, and China—with fragmented collaboration networks and scarce South-South linkages. Keyword analysis identified four main streams: (1) financial literacy and education; (2) financial inclusion and poverty reduction; (3) financial behavior and digital technologies; and (4) well-being and financial resilience. Discussions: Although the field has diversified its approaches, weak theoretical integration and limited international cooperation persist. Conclusions: This paper contributes evidence on the geographic, institutional, and thematic composition of the field, highlighting gaps and opportunities for future research, as well as recommendations for educational policies and programs that integrate behavioral, technological, and resilience components.