$ADA

Here's a concise overview of Cardano ($ADA) in approximately 100 words:

**Blockchain Fundamentals**:

Cardano is a third-generation proof-of-stake blockchain launched in 2017 by Ethereum co-founder Charles Hoskinson. It emphasizes peer-reviewed research, energy efficiency (using the Ouroboros consensus protocol), and a layered architecture (Cardano Settlement Layer and Computation Layer) for scalability and smart contracts .

**Token Utility**:

ADA, named after mathematician Ada Lovelace, facilitates transactions, staking, and governance. Holders can stake ADA to participate in network security and earn rewards. With a max supply of 45 billion, ~36.4 billion ADA are circulating as of 2023 .

**Ecosystem & Governance**:

Recent upgrades like Chang (2023) and Plomin (2025) transitioned Cardano to community-driven on-chain governance. The ecosystem supports DeFi, NFTs, and real-world applications like Ethiopia’s educational record system .

**Current Focus**:

Developers prioritize scaling solutions and interoperability (e.g., Midnight sidechain) amid market volatility .