$ETH

Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum introduced the concept of programmable blockchain technology, expanding the utility of blockchain beyond simple transactions. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the network.

Unlike Bitcoin, which mainly serves as digital currency, Ethereum is designed as a platform for building decentralized software. Developers can create and deploy smart contracts—self-executing agreements coded to run when specific conditions are met. This capability has made Ethereum the foundation for innovations such as decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and blockchain-based games.

Ethereum transitioned to a Proof of Stake consensus mechanism in 2022 through an upgrade called "The Merge," which significantly reduced its energy usage. Future updates, including sharding and layer 2 integrations, aim to improve scalability and transaction speed while lowering costs.

ETH is one of the most valuable and widely used cryptocurrencies globally. It plays a key role in the Web3 ecosystem, promoting decentralization, transparency, and user sovereignty. As adoption grows, Ethereum continues to shape the future of finance, technology, and the internet itself.