The concept of "nudge" has gained prominence over time across diverse domains, from sensory perception and artistic design to interactions between businesses and customers, and even within the fields of finance and public policy. Although commercial activities are closely linked to our daily lives, systematic reviews on nudging within the business realm have been relatively sparse. Therefore, this paper focuses on applications related to financial or commercial activities. Previous research has looked into various methods/techniques and the effectiveness of nudging, however, the same approach may not be appropriate for individuals with different personality traits. Precision in nudging can more effectively enhance individual well-being. Consequently, this paper also explores the relationship between nudging and psychological aspects such as personality traits and emotions. This paper begins with a fundamental introduction to nudge theory, then examines its applications in government, corporate, financial, and commercial settings. It further discusses potential risks associated with nudging and possible mitigation strategies. Finally, it highlights the development potential of integrating psychological traits in nudge research and application to achieve precision nudging. Through this review, the paper aims to enhance readers’ comprehension of the concepts and applications of nudging, and uncover potential future research directions in nudging. This article also serves as a valuable resource for nudge practitioners to examine the purpose, form, target audience, and intensity of nudges, enabling them to design the most effective and appropriate nudging strategies.