$ETH Ethereum ($ETH) is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization and a key player in the blockchain ecosystem. Unlike Bitcoin, which focuses on digital payments, Ethereum enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps), making it a foundation for DeFi (Decentralized Finance), NFTs, and more. With the transition to Ethereum 2.0 and the shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake, the network has improved scalability, security, and energy efficiency. This upgrade also introduced staking, allowing ETH holders to earn rewards by supporting the network. Ethereum's versatility and developer-friendly environment have made it a hub for innovation in Web3. However, the price of ETH remains volatile, influenced by market sentiment, regulatory developments, and broader macroeconomic trends. As adoption grows and Layer 2 scaling solutions expand, Ethereum continues to evolve. For investors and developers alike, Ethereum represents both a powerful technology platform and a speculative asset with long-term potential in the digital economy.