Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency and the leading smart-contract platform for DeFi, NFTs, and tokenization, giving it strong real-world utility.
Its transition to proof-of-stake and EIP-1559 fee-burning can make ETH deflationary during high usage, supporting its long-term value.
Recent price levels hover around ~$3,000 with mixed short-term sentiment but significant institutional interest via ETFs.
Upside catalysts include Layer-2 scaling, staking demand, and tokenization growth, while competition and technical resistance pose risks.
Analysts remain varied on 2026 outlook, with some forecasting higher gains if adoption accelerates. $ETH
ETH
3,004.49
-0.55%