Bioethics and Behavioral Finance in Latin America: Ethical Challenges and Policy Pathways for Inclusive Financial Sustainability

This paper examines the intersection of bioethics and behavioral finance in Latin America, emphasizing how behavioral biases, institutional trust, and rapid fintech expansion interact with ethical questions about autonomy, vulnerability, justice, and beneficence in financial services. Using publicly available regional datasets (Global Findex; fintech industry counts), a targeted literature review, and documented statements from regional experts and institutional reports, the study constructs a descriptive empirical picture and offers an ethical analysis oriented to policy and platform design. Results show large gains in account ownership alongside persistent behavioral and structural barriers (planning failures, optimism bias, low financial resilience) that raise bioethical concerns related to informed consent in digital products, distributive justice, and protection of vulnerable populations. The discussion proposes concrete, ethically grounded behavioral interventions and regulatory priorities to promote sustainable, inclusive financial systems that respect individual dignity and public welfare. The paper closes with recommended research and policy steps for scholars, regulators, and fintechs in Latin America.