$ADA Cardano (ADA) is a blockchain platform designed for the development of decentralized applications and smart contracts. Launched in 2017 by Charles Hoskinson, co-founder of Ethereum, Cardano aims to provide a more secure and scalable infrastructure than its predecessors. The platform uses a unique proof-of-stake consensus mechanism called Ouroboros, which is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. ADA is the native cryptocurrency of the Cardano network, enabling users to participate in governance, transaction fees, and staking. With a strong focus on research-driven development and peer-reviewed protocols, Cardano aims to create a decentralized financial system that empowers individuals and promotes global financial inclusion.