#$ETH

**Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum is the #1 smart contract blockchain, powering DeFi, NFTs, and dApps. Its native token, ETH, fuels transactions and staking. Key features:

- **Proof-of-Stake**: Energy-efficient since the Merge (2022).

- **Layer 2 Scaling**: Rollups (Arbitrum, Optimism) cut fees.

- **Upcoming Upgrades**: Proto-danksharding (EIP-4844) aims for cheaper L2s.

- **ETF Potential**: SEC approval could boost institutional demand.

- **Staking Rewards**: ~4% APR, with ~30% of ETH supply locked.

Challenges include high gas fees during congestion and rivals like Solana. However, Ethereum’s developer dominance and roadmap keep it ahead. ETH remains a blue-chip crypto bet. 💎🔷