Research trends in the determinants of efficiency in savings and credit cooperatives: Bibliometric analysis
Keywords:
determinants of efficiency, financial inclusion, bibliometric analysis.Abstract
The general objective of this study is to analyze research trends regarding the determinants of efficiency in savings and credit cooperatives (SCCs), in order to identify the main authors, institutions, countries, and emerging topics that shape this field of study. Efficiency in SCCs is a strategic aspect, as it determines the sustainability and competitiveness of these organizations, as well as their ability to simultaneously meet economic and social objectives. In this context, it is essential to have a comprehensive view that systematizes the existing literature and highlights the global dynamics of scientific production. The methodology adopted corresponds to a quantitative-descriptive approach based on a bibliometric analysis. The information was obtained from the Scopus database, selected for its broad coverage in social sciences, economics, and finance. The keywords "efficiency determinants" AND "credit unions" OR "savings and credit cooperatives" were used, covering the period 2000–2024. After a process of purging duplicate records, technical notes, and irrelevant documents, a final sample of 1,336 valid publications was obtained. The analysis was performed using R software (the bibliometrix package and its Biblioshiny interface) and complemented with graphical representations generated in Python. These tools made it possible to identify indicators of scientific productivity, the most influential authors, co-authorship networks, geographic distribution of output, and concentration by journal.
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