$ETH is more than just a cryptocurrency—it’s a decentralized platform that powers smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum introduced the concept of programmable blockchain, allowing developers to build applications that operate without intermediaries. Its native currency, ETH, fuels transactions and smart contract execution. With the transition to Ethereum 2.0 and its shift to a proof-of-stake consensus, the network has become more scalable, energy-efficient, and secure. Ethereum is the backbone of DeFi, NFTs, and the broader Web3 ecosystem, driving innovation in digital finance and beyond. As adoption grows, Ethereum continues to shape the future of decentralized technology.