$ADA is the native cryptocurrency of the Cardano blockchain, designed for secure, scalable, and sustainable transactions. Built on a peer-reviewed academic foundation, ADA supports smart contracts, decentralized applications, and staking via its proof-of-stake protocol, Ouroboros. It aims to solve issues of scalability and interoperability faced by earlier blockchains. ADA holders can participate in network governance and earn rewards through staking. While Cardano’s slow development has drawn criticism, ADA remains a top cryptocurrency by market cap. It has seen real-world use cases, especially in developing countries, and is positioned as a long-term, energy-efficient alternative to proof-of-work coins like Bitcoin.