Technological Evolution in Fintech: A Decadal Scientometric and Systematic Review of Developments and Criticisms

ABSTRACT This study aims to classify pivotal fintech innovations and explore the prospects and pitfalls associated with emerging fintech services extensively discussed in the literature. We conducted a multistage systematic review of research published on fintech over the past decade from a technological perspective. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) framework, we meticulously selected 947 records for a scientometric analysis of fintech research. This analysis revealed four main literature clusters based on keyword co‐occurrence identified through R software: blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, financial inclusion, peer‐to‐peer (P2P) technologies, and artificial intelligence, aligned with developments in fintech. Subsequently, a systematic literature review was performed within each cluster. After applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria, 121 research articles from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases were included for the second stage of the systematic review and synthesis. The findings highlight that fintech plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth, reducing poverty, and addressing income inequality, particularly in low‐income groups, while facing significant regulatory and technological challenges. Ethical considerations and robust regulatory frameworks are essential for sustainable development, especially in blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, where concerns over security, trust, and skilled human support are prevalent.