Financial technology, digital transformation, and bank credit risk: A review and theoretical framework

Abstract

This study reviews research on financial technology, digital transformation, and bank credit risk in order to systematize the theoretical foundations, identify research trends, and propose a theoretical framework for empirical studies. Based on the OpenAlex database, 106 studies were screened and keyword mapping was conducted using VOSviewer. The results identify five main research clusters, including: credit risk and lending activities; technology and financial innovation; risk management and financial stability; empirical research methods; and the financial-banking service ecosystem. Drawing on information asymmetry theory and the resource-based view, the study distinguishes FinTech from digital transformation capability, clarifies two opposing mechanisms, and proposes three hypotheses. The proposed theoretical framework contributes to the academic foundation and provides a basis for empirical research in the Vietnamese context.
Keywords
financial technology digital transformation credit risk commercial banks Vietnam.

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