TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF DIGITALIZATION AND BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY ON FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING: A THEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

The digital transformation of finance and accounting is accelerating with AI, blockchain, and automation, reshaping financial operations, auditing, and compliance. This study conducts a thematic analysis of academic literature (2018–2025) and industry reports from PwC, Deloitte, EY, HSBC, and central banks to examine key trends. Six themes emerged: automation and efficiency, security and fraud prevention, decentralization, financial inclusion, regulatory challenges, and adoption barriers. Findings show that AI and RPA enhance financial reporting and fraud detection, while blockchain improves transparency and security but poses scalability and regulatory challenges. Decentralized finance (DeFi) and digital currencies like JPM Coin and the Digital Yuan are transforming transactions but raise concerns over compliance and illicit activity risks. Mobile banking and blockchain-based solutions improve financial inclusion, yet digital literacy and security risks remain barriers. Using NVivo-based thematic analysis, the study identifies key trends shaping the future of financial digitalization. While AI and blockchain drive efficiency, regulatory complexities and adoption barriers must be addressed for sustainable transformation. Future research should explore scalability, AI-enhanced compliance, and blockchain’s role in financial security.