Digital financial literacy and financial inclusion in the global south for a sustainable future: A scoping review

Financial literacy is the backbone of financial inclusion. In the post-COVID world, exploring how digital financial literacy (DFL) can contribute to financial inclusion is essential. This scoping review aims to synthesise existing knowledge on the relationship between DFL and financial inclusion specifically in the context of the global south and provide future avenues in the research domain in light of achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). The review follows the PRISMA-ScR framework. Databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, Sage, Emerald, Taylor & Francis, and Wiley were systematically searched to identify relevant literature. Conceptual studies, literature reviews, and empirical studies (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies) were included in the review. The screening was conducted in two stages–title and abstract screening and full-text screening. The findings indicate a positive relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion. Despite the importance of digital financial literacy and financial inclusion in the global south, the studies are minimal in this context, with an orientation to achieve SDG goals. Changes need to be implemented at the level of policy in order to ensure greater digital financial literacy and financial inclusion at both micro and macro levels, which will, in turn, help in achieving the SDG goals.