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Fintech and SME Financial Inclusion: A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Author

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  • Selma Haj Khlifa

    (Professor and Doctor of Science, Department of Finance, Groupe ISCAE, Casablanca, Morocco)

  • Nada SRIFI

    (PhD Candidate, Department of Finance, Groupe ISCAE, Casablanca, Morocco)

Abstract

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) continue to encounter significant obstacles in securing finance, often due to information asymmetry, limited credit histories, and inadequate collateral. Developments in Financial Technology (FinTech) have reshaped capital access by enhancing information exchange, reducing transaction costs, and introducing alternative financing models. This study offers a systematic review of empirical research on FinTech and SME financial inclusion between 2008 and 2025, using scientific methods such as PRISMA, PSALSAR, Biblioshiny, and Bibliometrix in RStudio. The findings indicate a relatively recent and fragmented body of literature, with a concentration of studies in China, Indonesia, and other emerging economies. Evidence consistently supports FinTech’s contribution to mitigating financing barriers, particularly in developing contexts. Nonetheless, notable limitations remain, such as a dependence on secondary data, restricted geographic scope, and a scarcity of longitudinal analyses. The paper identifies these gaps and proposes directions for future research to better understand how FinTech can foster sustainable and inclusive financing for SMEs in diverse economic environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Selma Haj Khlifa & Nada SRIFI, 2026. "Fintech and SME Financial Inclusion: A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis," European Journal of Studies in Management and Business, EUROKD, vol. 37, pages 1-22.
    • Handle: RePEc:bco:mbrqaa::v:37:y:2026:p:1-22
    DOI: 10.32038/mbrq.2026.37.01
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