Ethereum (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain, a decentralized platform renowned for its smart contract functionality. Launched in 2015, Ethereum enables developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps). Unlike Bitcoin, which was primarily conceived as a digital currency, Ethereum is designed as a programmable blockchain, acting as a world computer that can execute code.
Ether serves a dual purpose within the Ethereum ecosystem. Firstly, it's used to pay transaction fees, known as "gas," which are necessary to execute smart contracts and conduct transactions on the network. Secondly, it can be traded and used as a digital currency.
Ethereum's technology has spurred numerous innovative use cases, particularly in the realm of Decentralized, Finance (DeFi), where it underpins lending, borrowing, and decentralized exchanges. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), representing unique digital assets, also largely exist on the Ethereum blockchain. Its versatility has made it a foundational layer for a wide array of applications, from supply chain management to gaming and digital identity solutions. As of April 26, 2025, the price of ETH is around $1797, with a market capitalization of approximately $217 billion.
