$ETH Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum introduced the idea of a programmable blockchain, expanding the possibilities beyond simple cryptocurrency transactions. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used to power transactions and smart contract operations on the network. Ethereum has played a crucial role in the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and blockchain-based gaming. With the shift to Ethereum 2.0, the platform has transitioned from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake, aiming for greater scalability, security, and energy efficiency.