Evolution and future trajectories of research on bank efficiency: A systematic review

Abstract

This bibliometric study examines trends in bank efficiency research over the past three decades. Systematic database searches were used to identify 342 articles on bank efficiency published between 1991 and 2023. Bibliometric analysis techniques were used to analyze publication volume patterns, influential authors and journals, geographic distribution, and conceptual structure. Citation analysis and text mining shed light on the evolution of bank efficiency research. The publication rate increased between 2005 and 2016 before leveling off. Research output continues to be dominated by a handful of prolific authors and institutions, primarily in Malaysia. Recent studies have incorporated external determinants such as regulation, governance, and competition, while influential earlier works focused on internal operations. Despite the dominance of data envelopment analysis, new techniques such as machine learning are emerging. The focus of research has shifted from developed to emerging economies. Initial technical topics have expanded to include sustainability, governance, and inclusion. Differences exist in terms of qualitative factors, long-term performance, and new contexts. Future research should assess the impact of digital transformation, dynamics during economic downturns, climate-related risks, and competition from non-bank entrants based on identified trends and gaps. This study provides a quantitative analysis of the trends influencing bank efficiency research and identifies promising avenues for advancing knowledge.