#CPI&JoblessClaimsWatch Ethereum (ETH) is the leading blockchain platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApp). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, ETH has ushered in a new era for blockchain, surpassing the role of merely being a currency like Bitcoin.

In terms of technology, Ethereum has transitioned to a Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism through the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade (The Merge), helping to reduce energy consumption and increase network efficiency. Scaling solutions such as Layer 2 (Arbitrum, Optimism) are thriving, helping to lower transaction fees and increase processing speeds.