$ETH Ethereum ($ETH) is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum goes beyond simple transactions, allowing developers to build complex programs using its native language, Solidity. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used for transaction fees and staking. In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from Proof of Work (PoW) to Proof of Stake (PoS) via “The Merge,” significantly reducing energy usage. It’s the backbone of decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 innovation. Ethereum continues evolving, with future upgrades aimed at scalability, speed, and lower fees through sharding and rollups.