Mapping the transformative realm of blockchain-enabled central bank digital currencies: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract

There has been an upsurge in the research and analysis of blockchain-enabled central bank digital currencies. This increased interest can be observed across academic institutions, financial entities, and government bodies. Consequently, numerous literature reviews have been conducted to consolidate and present the development of studies on blockchain-enabled central bank digital currencies. Nevertheless, most studies have depended on only one database for their analysis and/or adopted a broader approach encompassing various aspects. This study aimed to address the limitations of existing literature review studies by adopting a more targeted approach while utilizing extensive databases and contemporary analysis methods. Using a bibliometric analysis the study maps the literature on blockchain-enabled central bank digital currencies from 2017 to 2024, sourced from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. It identifies influential authors, active journals, countries, and documents in the field. Moreover, this study outlines the thematic structure and recent advances in the field through co-word analysis. It also highlights gaps in the literature and proposes six key directions for future research.