A bibliometric analysis on financial planning awareness: trends, gaps and future research

Purpose This study examines a comprehensive bibliometric analysis on Financial Planning awareness, using the Scopus database. It aims to uncover key thematic areas, research trends, and knowledge gaps within this emerging domain. Design/methodology/approach Biblioshiny R software and Vosviewer are used to provide a comprehensive overview of thematic map analysis, bibliographic coupling, co-author analysis, co-citation analysis and co-word analysis. These techniques facilitated the identification of influential authors, collaborative networks, research clusters and the thematic evolution of the field. Findings The analysis reveals a growing scholarly interest in financial planning, with a significant surge observed in 2024. Fragmented clusters currently characterise the field focused on behavioural finance, managerial strategies and technological innovations. This fragmentation highlights the need for more cohesive and integrative frameworks to guide future research and practice. Practical implications Practically, the findings encourage the development of integrated financial planning frameworks that combine behavioural, strategic and technological insights. There is a clear need for more robust methodologies, such as longitudinal and experimental studies, to guide effective financial tools and policies. Social implications The study highlights the growing societal interest in financial planning, emphasising the need for inclusive and equitable access to financial knowledge. It also calls for increased financial literacy and resilience, particularly in response to global shocks such as pandemics and inflation crises. Promoting interdisciplinary and international collaboration can foster more socially responsive and inclusive financial systems. Originality/value This study makes an original contribution by mapping the intellectual landscape of financial planning awareness and suggesting a future research agenda that is readily adaptable to respond to changes in technology, focused on the world and interdisciplinary by nature. The findings have practical implications for academics, practitioners and policymakers looking to improve financial literacy, inclusiveness and resilience in a changing economic landscape.