A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH TRENDS IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND FINANCE (2015-2025)

Abstract

This study explores the research trends in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Finance through a detailed bibliometric analysis of relevant literature published between 2015 and 2025. In recent years, AI-driven innovations such as blockchain technology, digital platforms, and intelligent financial systems have transformed the financial sector, prompting a surge in academic interest. Despite this growing body of research, a systematic understanding of its structure, development, and key contributors remains limited. To address this gap, the study applies a bibliometric methodology, using the Scopus database to extract scholarly publications with the keywords "AI," "digital," "technology," and "finance" in the title. The dataset was refined using OpenRefine to ensure consistency and data cleanliness and analyzed using Scopus Analyzer and VOSviewer software to uncover key patterns in publication volume, subject areas, influential authors and countries, popular keywords, and collaborative networks. The final dataset comprises 1,388 English-language journal articles. The findings reveal a significant growth in scholarly output beginning in 2020, with strong growth observed in 2023 and 2024, reflecting increasing global interest in the digital transformation of financial services. China emerged as the dominant contributor, followed by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia. Keyword co-occurrence mapping highlights prominent themes such as digital finance, fintech, digital inclusive finance, and blockchain. Highly cited works focus on the role of digital finance in sustainability and the impact of AI on financial systems and policy. The analysis also shows increasing collaboration among authors and institutions across regions. In summary, this bibliometric study maps the development of research in AI and finance, identifies emerging themes and guiding future research directions in this interdisciplinary field.