What is Ethereum?

Ethereum is the world's leading smart contract blockchain. Launched in 2015, it supports decentralised applications (dApps), DeFi protocols, and NFTs. ETH is the native cryptocurrency used to pay transaction fees.

Key Features

• Smart Contracts - Self-executing code on the blockchain
• Proof of Stake - Ethereum transitioned in 2022, reducing energy use by 99.9%
• Layer 2 Scaling - Arbitrum, Optimism, Base make transactions cheap and fast
• DeFi Ecosystem - Lending, borrowing, trading without intermediaries

Staking ETH in the UK

Minimum 32 ETH to run a validator node, or stake any amount via exchanges and staking pools. Current staking yield is approximately 3-5% APR. Staking rewards are taxable as income.