Layer 1 · Smart contracts · #2 by market cap (snapshot)
Ethereum
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Ethereum (ETH) — Ethereum is a programmable blockchain proposed by Vitalik Buterin and launched in 2015. ETH pays for transactions ('gas') and secures the network through staking since the 2022 Merge to proof of stake.
Why people search for it: ETH is the default smart-contract search: DeFi, NFTs, staking and L2 activity keep it #2 after Bitcoin.
🧩 What it is
Ethereum is a programmable blockchain proposed by Vitalik Buterin and launched in 2015. ETH pays for transactions ('gas') and secures the network through staking since the 2022 Merge to proof of stake.
⚡ Why it's interesting
Most of DeFi, NFTs, stablecoins and tokenised assets live on Ethereum or its layer-2 networks. Think of it as the default settlement layer for crypto apps.
⚠️ Key risks
Fees can spike when it's busy, layer-2s may capture value, and rivals like Solana compete for users. Smart-contract bugs and hacks are an ecosystem-wide risk, and staking has its own lock-up and slashing risks.
👀 What to watch
layer-2 growth, staking ETFs and whether fees flow back to ETH.
Written by the Hodlia.fi editorial team. Education only — not financial advice, no price predictions. Contains a TradingView affiliate link.
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❓ Ethereum FAQ
What is Ethereum (ETH)?
Ethereum is a programmable blockchain proposed by Vitalik Buterin and launched in 2015. ETH pays for transactions ('gas') and secures the network through staking since the 2022 Merge to proof of stake.
Why do people follow Ethereum?
Most of DeFi, NFTs, stablecoins and tokenised assets live on Ethereum or its layer-2 networks. Think of it as the default settlement layer for crypto apps.
Why do people search for Ethereum?
ETH is the default smart-contract search: DeFi, NFTs, staking and L2 activity keep it #2 after Bitcoin.
What are the main risks of Ethereum?
Fees can spike when it's busy, layer-2s may capture value, and rivals like Solana compete for users. Smart-contract bugs and hacks are an ecosystem-wide risk, and staking has its own lock-up and slashing risks.
What should I watch with Ethereum?
layer-2 growth, staking ETFs and whether fees flow back to ETH.
Is Ethereum a good investment?
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