TRANSFORMATION OF VIRTUAL SOCIAL CAPITAL IN THE TRUST ECONOMY

This article aims to describe the transformation of social capital in the context of digitalization of economic relations. The study makes several significant contributions to social capital theory and the digital economy. First, an integrative conceptual model of virtual social capital transformation is proposed, systematizing disparate empirical observations into a unified analytical framework. Second, the concept of “transformation” is operationalized through the identification of specific mechanisms and dimensions, making the phenomenon accessible for empirical verification. Third, a new typology of forms of virtual social capital is developed, including algorithmic, reputational, supportive, and platform bonding capital. The obtained results can be applied to the development of fair reputation systems, the formation of regulatory policy for digital markets, and strategies for platform economy participants.