$BTC **Ethereum (ETH)**

Ethereum (ETH) is the second largest cryptocurrency after Bitcoin in terms of market capitalization. It was launched in 2015 by **Vitalik Buterin**, and it differs from Bitcoin in that it is not limited to being just a digital currency, but provides a platform for **smart contracts** and decentralized applications (DApps).

ETH operates on **blockchain** technology that supports the creation of diverse applications in the fields of decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). ETH is also used to pay transaction fees (gas) on the network.

Ethereum is preparing for continuous improvements, such as **transitioning to Proof of Stake (PoS)**, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. ETH is considered a fundamental pillar in the world of digital currencies and technological innovations.