Chapter 4: Mapping the Invisible Pathways: A Bibliometric Study on Informal Lending in the Informal Economy

This chapter explores an analytical method to understand the decades-long literature on informal lending in the informal sector. Assessing the predominance and interrelationships of numerous issues in informal loans in the informal economy helps in identifying emerging research trends. The analysis employs a method of investigation by thematically analyzing research publications indexed by Scopus from the first publication to 2023 using bibliometrix and PRISMA model in R Studio. Research ideas may be visualized using thematic slices and other visual representations that show their evolution and interconnectedness. Key concepts like “rural credit” and “informal sector” become apparent, shedding light on the evolution of these concepts through time with the help of thematic analysis. Findings on trending themes and tree maps improve thematic comprehension. The study majority restricted to thematic analysis in depth confined to available information. The results may be used as a road map for further study and policy choices in the field of informal lending. Informal lending research promotes financial inclusion and sustainable informal sector economic growth. This bibliometric analysis illuminates informal lending research themes and their consequences for informal economy issues. The results enhance informal lending research and policy development.