$ETH is the original digital asset of the decentralized blockchain network, used for paying transaction fees and powering smart applications. It is characterized by its extensive capabilities in supporting smart contracts, making it the cornerstone of many innovations such as decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). It has also undergone significant technological evolution by transitioning to a Proof of Stake mechanism, which has drastically reduced energy consumption. Despite its price volatility, $ETH remains a pivotal element in the architecture of Web 3.0, and is seen as more than just a digital currency, but as a tool for building a global decentralized financial system.