$ETH

Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) to be built and operated without downtime, fraud, or third-party interference. Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and other developers, Ethereum introduced the concept of a programmable blockchain, allowing developers to create self-executing contracts that run automatically when predefined conditions are met. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the network. Ethereum transitioned to a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism in 2022, improving energy efficiency and security while reducing reliance on traditional mining. ETH remains a cornerstone of the crypto ecosystem.