Ethereum is a decentralised, open-source blockchain network that supports smart contracts and is the world's second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. It transcends the basic functions of a store of value or medium of exchange. Instead, Ethereum serves as a versatile computing platform, enabling developers to build and deploy decentralised applications (dApps) and smart contracts without a central authority.
Ethereum has stated that its goal is to become a global platform for decentralised applications. To put this in simple terms, think of Ethereum as the foundational layer for a new digital realm. It's like a global computer, allowing various applications such as music streaming services, video games, NFT trading and token swapping to thrive.
The Ethereum blockchain was first launched in 2015 and eventually became a key player in decentralised finance (DeFi). Since its release, Ethereum has paved the way for other decentralised smart contract platforms like Cardano, Solana and Avalanche.
Ethereum became the second cryptocurrency to see spot ETF approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission in May 2024. This provided investors the ability to gain exposure to ETH via regulated stock exchanges. Within a year, spot Ether ETFs in the US exceeded a combined market cap of US $10b.
Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency for the Ethereum network and is used to pay for network fees and reward users participating in the Proof of Stake consensus mechanism. You can buy Ethereum and other digital currencies in Australia in just a few clicks with low fees and minimal spreads on the Swyftx crypto trading platform.