$ADA Cardano (ADA) is a blockchain platform designed for secure and scalable decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2017 by Charles Hoskinson, a co-founder of Ethereum, Cardano aims to provide a more energy-efficient and sustainable blockchain using a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism called Ouroboros. ADA, its native cryptocurrency, is used for transactions, staking, and governance. Cardano’s development follows a research-driven approach, ensuring security and scalability. With ongoing upgrades like Hydra for scaling and smart contract capabilities via the Alonzo update, Cardano competes with Ethereum as a platform for decentralized finance (DeFi) and other blockchain applications.