#NasdaqETFUpdate Ethereum is an open-source blockchain system used for developing smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). It was launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and is the second most popular cryptocurrency after Bitcoin, with the symbol ETH. Ethereum allows developers to create programs that run automatically without the need for a third party. In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a proof-of-work (PoW) system to a proof-of-stake (PoS) system, reducing energy consumption. Ethereum is used in decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and is a cornerstone in the world of cryptocurrencies and the future digital economy.