The Role of Digital Credit in Building Trust: A Case Study of Zhima Credit's Inclusive Housing Initiative in China*

This paper explores the extent to which digital credit scoring-an innovative digital technology-can foster social trust, bridge financial and information gaps, and expand greater access to resources and facilities. The analysis is based on an in-depth case study of Zhima Credit's efforts to promote inclusive housing in China. Findings from a unique survey at the individual user-level show that digital credit users exhibit greater trust in their economic activities and report higher satisfaction in their overall life conditions.