A Bibliometric Analysis of E-payment Systems and their Impact on Financial Inclusion

Authors

  • Lekhnath Subedi Nepal Commerce Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal Author
  • Dipendra Karki Nepal Commerce Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal Author
  • Nirupan Karki Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Nepal Author
  • Prapti Paudyal Model Institute of Technology, Nepal Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/y4ysex31

Keywords:

Bibliometric analysis, e-payment systems, financial inclusion, financial innovation, technology adoption

Abstract

Purpose: This study systematically examines the scholarly development of research on e-payment systems and financial inclusion.

Methodology/Design/Approach: A bibliometric analysis of 348 publications indexed in the Dimensions database (2016–2025) was conducted using Biblioshiny to examine the intellectual structure, research trends, thematic evolution, most influential authors, main themes, co-authorship, and collaboration patterns in e-payment systems and financial inclusion.

Findings: The use of e-payment technology, including mobile wallets, internet banking, and contactless payments, has increased over the past few years. Such systems are an important part of financial inclusion, as they can help lessen the dependence on traditional banking services and allow access to formal financial institutions to individuals who have not been able to benefit from traditional financial institutions. Cybersecurity problems, Digital literacy shortfalls, and infrastructure limitations are still crucial obstacles. 

Conclusion: The study confirms that e-payment systems are highly relevant with regard to financial inclusion, reduction of transaction costs, and providing access to formal financial services for the unbanked. However, there are other challenges to broader adoption, including digital and data literacy, cybersecurity, and infrastructure challenges. An inclusive approach to the potential of digital payment ecosystems is dependent on coordinated legal, institutional, and technological actions.

Implications: This study provides a thorough bibliometric review of e-payment systems and financial inclusion, and suggests possible future avenues for research on the themes, focusing on regional differences in digital financial inclusion and the role of AI and blockchain.

Originality/value: This research aims to drive the progress of trustworthy digital adoption across the country and to execute the transition of the financial sector into the digital age. This strategy will propel the development of trustworthy digital adoption throughout the country and will implement the digital transformation of the financial sector.  

JEL Classification: D14, E42, G21, L86, O16

Author Biographies

  • Lekhnath Subedi, Nepal Commerce Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal

    Lekhnath Subedi is a Research Scholar at Tribhuvan University with academic interests in finance, digital payment systems, and financial inclusion. His research primarily focuses on emerging financial technologies and their socioeconomic implications in developing economies.

     

  • Dipendra Karki, Nepal Commerce Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal

    Dipendra Karki, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Management at Tribhuvan University, Nepal Commerce Campus, Kathmandu. He earned PhD in Finance from Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM). His teaching interests include Global Finance, Behavioural Finance, and Financial Economics.  Dr. Karki is a published author, having written several articles and books.

  • Nirupan Karki, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Nepal

    Nirupan Karki is a scholar at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, where his academic interests include engineering research and technological innovation.

  • Prapti Paudyal, Model Institute of Technology, Nepal

    Prapti Paudyal is pursuing a Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) at Model Institute of Technology (MIT),  Kathmandu, Nepal. Her research interests include information technology, data analytics, and the application of technology in interdisciplinary research.

     

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Published

2026-07-25

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Insurance and Social Security

Section

Risk Management and Governance

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Copyright (c) 2026 Lekhnath Subedi, Dipendra Karki, Nirupan Karki, Prapti Paudyal (Author)

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