Financial technology and environmental, social and governance in sustainable finance: a bibliometric and thematic content analysis

Abstract The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with Financial Technology (Fintech) has emerged as a pivotal mechanism for advancing sustainable finance. This study investigates the interplay between ESG and Fintech through bibliometric and thematic content analysis to uncover key research trends, thematic clusters, and existing knowledge gaps in this dynamic field. The research problem focuses on how FinTech innovations can support ESG-driven initiatives such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), financial inclusion, and sustainable development while addressing challenges like performance metrics and governance issues. By mapping the research landscape, the study identifies significant contributions from scholars, notably in China and the USA, and explores prominent themes, including the role of Fintech in ESG disclosures, corporate governance, and sustainability. Emerging technologies like AI and blockchain are also highlighted for their impact on ESG reporting. The findings reveal exponential academic interest in this domain but underscore critical industrial challenges, such as the absence of standardized ESG metrics and the limited application of Fintech in addressing sustainability issues. The study concludes by offering future research directions aimed at bridging these gaps and emphasizing the transformative potential of Fintech in driving sustainability across the financial sector.