Ethereum: The Blockchain That Powers DeFi and NFTs

When working with Ethereum, a decentralized, open‑source blockchain that runs smart contracts and powers the ETH token. Also known as ETH, it serves as the foundation for thousands of decentralized applications, from finance to gaming. Ethereum combines a public ledger, a programmable virtual machine, and a vibrant developer community, making it more than just a cryptocurrency—it’s an entire ecosystem that lets anyone create trust‑less agreements.

Why Ethereum’s Shift to Proof of Stake Matters

The network’s biggest upgrade, The Merge, the transition from proof‑of‑work mining to proof‑of‑stake validation, slashed energy use by over 99% and unlocked new economic incentives. Proof of Stake, a consensus mechanism where validators lock up ETH to secure the chain now underpins Ethereum, enabling anyone with enough ETH to earn staking rewards while helping the network stay secure. The shift creates a clear semantic triple: Ethereum requires staking; staking provides passive income; The Merge influences Ethereum’s energy footprint. For newcomers, staking means depositing ETH into a validator or staking pool, then receiving a share of block rewards—often double‑digit annual yields. Smart contracts, the programmable building blocks of the platform, run unchanged, but they benefit from lower fees and faster finality, making decentralized finance (DeFi) products more accessible.

Beyond the tech, Ethereum’s market dynamics drive real‑world decisions. Its market cap, fully diluted valuation, and on‑chain activity are tracked by analysts to gauge health and growth. Crypto exchanges like CODEX, ProBit Global, and JetSwap often list ETH pairs, offering traders liquidity and price discovery. Understanding the relationship between staking rewards, token supply, and exchange fees helps investors manage risk and spot opportunities. Our collection below covers everything from how to start staking after The Merge, to deep dives on exchange reviews, to the impact of market cap metrics. Whether you’re looking to earn yield, trade ETH, or build a dApp, the articles ahead give you practical steps and up‑to‑date data to act on.