Cardano

Cardano (ADA) was founded in 2017 by Charles Hoskinson, co-founder of Ethereum, as a third-generation blockchain platform built on peer-reviewed academic research and formal verification methods. Using the energy-efficient Ouroboros proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, Cardano aims to provide a more sustainable and scientifically rigorous approach to blockchain development than its predecessors.

The Cardano ecosystem centers around its native ADA token, which enables staking rewards for network validators, and a growing collection of decentralized applications following the launch of smart contract functionality through the Alonzo upgrade. The platform emphasizes interoperability, sustainability, and scalability while supporting DeFi protocols, NFT projects, and identity solutions across emerging markets, particularly in Africa through partnerships with governments and educational institutions.

At CoinDesk, we provide comprehensive Cardano news coverage tracking the platform's methodical development approach, major protocol upgrades, and real-world adoption initiatives. Our reporting covers everything from staking developments and DeFi growth to Cardano's unique governance model and expanding partnerships in developing nations.

DISCLOSURE: This text was written with the assistance of AI, then reviewed by a person.

Videos

Unocoin Offers Bitcoin Vouchers, Alonzo Upgrade Onboards Users

Cardano’s Alonzo Purple upgrade begins onboarding users. Indian crypto exchange Unocoin offers bitcoin gift vouchers, and Axie Infinity growth continues. We’ll have more on that story and other news shaping the cryptocurrency and blockchain world in this episode of "The Daily Forkast."

Aug 9, 2021

Markets

Market Opens Betting That Cardano Won't Release Smart Contracts by Oct. 1

The odds are 63-37 against, according to recent trading levels on Polymarket.

By Marc Hochstein, Brady DaleJul 15, 2021

Markets

The Headache of 'Crypto Colonialism'

Blockchains can’t rebuild roads or end sectarian violence, famine or natural disasters.

By Pete HowsonJul 14, 2021

"Blockchain projects can do very little to repair the roads and build strong political institutions in places like Ethiopia," Peter Howson writes.

Markets

Grayscale Adds Cardano to Its Digital Large Cap Fund

The digital-asset manager sold some existing constituents of the fund and used the proceeds to purchase ADA.

By Jamie CrawleyJul 2, 2021

Giants Chief Commercial Officer Pete Guelli (left) and Grayscale CEO Michael Sonnenshein

Markets

Security Audit Firm Raises $5.3M From Funds Investing in Polkadot, Cardano Blockchains

Runtime Verification checks smart contracts for errors, perhaps most famously with Uniswap.

By Jamie CrawleyJun 18, 2021

Markets

Market Wrap: Attempts to Push Bitcoin Above $40K Stall

Some analysts are optimistic while others prefer to see stronger signs of upside momentum before calling a bottom.

By Damanick Dantes, Frances YueJun 15, 2021

Markets

Ethereum and XRP Looking More Attractive as Investors Rush to Exit Bitcoin Funds

Investors redeemed a net $141 million during the seven days through June 4, the highest weekly total on record, according to CoinShares.

By Damanick DantesJun 7, 2021

Videos

SpaceChain Shoots Blockchain to Space; Cardano’s Bridge to China

Singapore startup SpaceChain will send its blockchain tech to the International Space Station aboard Falcon 9. Cardano announces its first cross-chain bridge with China’s Nervos Network. Indian cryptocurrency exchange WazirX and Korbit in South Korea launch, their nation's first NFT platforms. We’ll have more on that story – and other news shaping the cryptocurrency and blockchain world – in this episode of The Daily Forkast, June 2.

Jun 3, 2021

Markets