Bridging Finance and Sustainability: A Bibliometric Analysis of Alternative and Sustainable Finance for Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

The 2008–2009 financial crisis exposed vulnerabilities in the traditional banking system, leading to stricter regulations that restricted access to capital. This created space for the rise of alternative finance, which operates outside conventional banking and capital markets, offering innovative solutions. Simultaneously, sustainable finance has gained momentum by integrating ESG principles into investment strategies, channeling resources toward responsible economic activities. The intersection of these fields is significant, as alternative finance can fund sustainable projects often neglected by traditional financiers. Despite growing research, studies remain fragmented, with gaps in understanding their synergies. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis to examine trends, key contributors, and research gaps in alternative and sustainable finance. The findings offer insights into how alternative finance mechanisms contribute to sustainable development, supporting researchers, policymakers, and practitioners navigating the evolving landscape of finance and sustainability.