Affinity has Transform mode for selected points (see the GIF).
Figma recently announced a similar thing — https://x.com/figma/status/2018778936482935124

Illustrator meanwhile allows to use Scale, Rotate, and other dedicated transform tools for a partial selection. No bounding box is allowed when Direct Selection is active.
We can pick Free Transform and use a familiar frame to transform the partial selection... but this frame hugs the entire object. This can be useful in some cases, but not that handy in others -—like when you need to work with a rather small part of a larger artwork.
Perhaps there should be a way to may the frame hug the selection snuggly?