Fintech and data envelopment analysis: A Bibliometric mapping of efficiency evaluation studies

Global financial services and markets have been thoroughly
redefined with the emergence of FinTech. The integration of these new financial technologies into the financial services and financial products have improved the process through which the users’ personal expectations are satisfied. On
the one hand, these new technologies have the potential to enhance efficiency; on the other hand, they also present certain challenges. These challenges are particularly evident in the ability of regulatory bodies to promptly adapt to the rapidly changing fintech landscape. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric mapping of research at the intersection of Financial Technology (FinTech) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), focusing on efficiency
evaluation within financial innovation. Using the PRISMA framework and the Bibliometrix R-tool, 386 Scopus-indexed publications were systematically analyzed to identify intellectual structures, thematic trends, and key contributors in this emerging field. The results reveal that research on FinTech efficiency is growing in scope and methodological sophistication, with DEA serving as a
dominant analytical approach for measuring productivity, performance, and sustainability. China emerges as the leading country in terms of publication output and citation impact, while core themes such as efficiency, productivity,
technical efficiency, and sustainable development dominate the scholarly landscape. The analysis highlights a gradual shift from traditional efficiency assessments toward more integrated approaches that incorporate digital innovation, environmental considerations, and policy relevance. By mapping research evolution and identifying knowledge gaps, this study offers valuable insights for academics, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to enhance the efficiency and resilience of FinTech ecosystems through data-driven methodologies.