Monetization Models in the Digital Platform Economy

Abstract

The digital platform economy has undergone a significant transformation, becoming a fundamental driver of value creation in the global economy during 2024–2026. This study investigates the evolution and effectiveness of contemporary monetization models, with particular emphasis on the transition toward hybrid revenue structures. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating a critical review of academic literature with quantitative analysis of recent financial data and industry reports. The paper examines core monetization mechanisms, including transaction-based models, subscription systems, advertising-driven revenues, and emerging forms of data monetization enabled by artificial intelligence. The findings indicate that platforms adopting multi-layered monetization strategies demonstrate superior adaptability and long-term sustainability, primarily through the exploitation of network effects and advanced data analytics. Additionally, the study highlights the increasing influence of regulatory frameworks and generative AI on strategic pricing and revenue optimization. The research contributes to the understanding of platformbased business models by emphasizing the necessity of balancing value creation with efficient value capture in complex digital ecosystems. CZU: 336.717:[004.78+004.8]; JEL: L86, M13, D21, O33, L13