Studies in Business and Economics | 2026
Authors: Mastac L.; Nicodim L.; Radu O.R.
DOI: 10.2478/sbe-2026-0015
Journal: Studies in Business and Economics
Year: 2026
Publisher: Sciendo
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access; Green Open Access
Cited by: 0
This bibliometric analysis maps the thematic structure of the scientific literature at the intersection of the shadow economy, technology, and institutional quality. Using Bibliometrix/Biblioshiny on Web of Science(WoS) data, 383 articles were analysed. The results reveal a significant increase in scientific interest, particularly after 2011, peaking in 2024. Dominant themes include corruption, institutional quality, governance, and economic growth, while emerging terms such as digitalization, machine learning, and CO2 emissions signal a reorientation towards sustainability and technology. Factor analysis identified four conceptual clusters, suggesting that while bilateral analyses remain prevalent, a more integrated framework is beginning to emerge. China leads in publications and international collaborations, while Central and South-Eastern Europe and other emerging economies remain underrepresented. By providing a pioneering mapping of this triple nexus, the study identifies four conceptual clusters, exposes integration gaps, and charts priority directions for future research on the shadow economy. © 2026 Lavinia Mastac et al.
Bibliometric Analysis; Institutional Quality; Shadow Economy; Technology