Tracing ESG and Cost of Capital Literature: A Triangulated Multi‐Method Approach With TCCM Lens

ABSTRACT This study provides an integrated overview of the growing research linking environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance to the Cost of Capital (CoC). Combining bibliometric analysis, topic modeling, and a systematic literature review (SLR) under the theory‐context‐characteristics‐methodology (TCCM) framework, it maps the intellectual, thematic, and methodological landscape of the ESG–CoC domain. The bibliometric results reveal a sharp increase in ESG–CoC scholarship after 2020, driven by global sustainability mandates, regulatory disclosure reforms, and heightened investor sensitivity to non‐financial risks. China, the United States, and Italy dominate research output, though regional collaboration remains limited. Topic modeling identifies five major thematic clusters, ranging from ESG disclosure and assurance to capital structure, risk mediation, and information asymmetry. The qualitative synthesis highlights the theoretical dominance of stakeholder and legitimacy theories, an empirical focus on developed markets, and a methodological reliance on panel regressions. It also exposes underexplored areas such as governance mechanisms, emerging market dynamics, and the mediating role of corporate reputation and risk. By integrating quantitative mapping with qualitative depth, this study provides a comprehensive research foundation for understanding how ESG practices impact financing costs. It further proposes a forward‐looking agenda emphasizing hybrid analytical methods, technological mediation, and cross‐country comparative research to advance sustainable finance scholarship.