$ETH Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain renowned for its smart contract functionality. Co-founded by Vitalik Buterin, it acts as a global platform for decentralized applications (dApps) across various sectors like DeFi and NFTs. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), fuels the network and is used for transaction fees called "gas."

Ethereum transitioned to a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus in "The Merge," enhancing scalability and sustainability. Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum is designed as a programmable blockchain, allowing developers to build complex applications. Its ongoing development focuses on further scalability, security, and user experience improvements through upgrades like the upcoming Pectra.