Banks in smart cities. A bibliometric and thematic review

This article aims to systematize scientific research on the role of banks in the context of the smart city concept. A bibliometric study of papers obtained from the Scopus and Web of Science databases between 2011 and 2025. Following the application of restricting criteria throughout the search procedure, 110 records were retrieved from Web of Science and 312 from the Scopus database. This study highlights the possible gaps found and provides an appraisal of the current state and future research prospects. It specifies the most referenced publications, the distribution of keywords, and the most productive authors, nations, and journals. In addition, the evolution of the role of banks in the smart city environment over the years is presented. The study identifies 5 clusters – areas of research dedicated to the topic of banking and the role of banks in a smart city. The finding suggests that research topics dedicated to the role of banks in a smart city should be focused on three main areas: direct, indirect, and advisory/educational activities.