Digital Currencies and Sustainable Finance: A Bibliometric Review of Global Research Trends
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends at the intersection of digital currencies and sustainable finance from 2018 to 2026. Drawing on 358 publications indexed in the Scopus database, the analysis employed Bibliometrics and VOSviewer to examine publication performance, citation structures, keyword co-occurrences, and thematic evolution. The results reveal a significant rise in scholarly attention toward digital currencies, particularly cryptocurrency, blockchain, and central bank digital currency (CBDC), with notable connections to themes of sustainability, green economy, and financial inclusion. The study identified cryptocurrency (31.01%), blockchain (14.25%), and bitcoin (13.13%) as the most prominent keywords, underscoring the dominance of technological innovation in reshaping financial ecosystems. Furthermore, the citation metrics (4,246 total citations; h-index = 34) indicate robust academic engagement and growing interdisciplinary collaboration. The findings highlight those digital financial innovations not only transform global financial structures but also play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development and green finance initiatives. This bibliometric mapping offers valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and researchers aiming to align digital finance strategies with sustainability objectives. Future studies are encouraged to explore the regulatory frameworks, technological ethics, and environmental impacts of digital currencies to foster an inclusive and resilient financial future.
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