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.

Markets

Cardano Creator Compares Criticism of Project to 'Trump Derangement Syndrome'

Infighting is hurting crypto, IOHK's Charles Hoskinson says, but he won't "apologize for kicking people in the teeth" on Twitter if someone is attacking Cardano or its community.

By Paddy BakerJul 10, 2020

A large reprint of Jean-Leon Gerome's "Pollice Verso" hangs behind Charles Hoskinson in a recent video. (Wikimedia Commons)

Markets

Cardano at One-Year High on Shelley Upgrade

The eighth-largest cryptocurrency by market value jumped to $0.1021 on Saturday to hit its highest price level since June 2019. It has rallied by a staggering 170% in the second quarter, according to CoinDesk data.

By Omkar GodboleJul 6, 2020

Cardano (ADA) prices, July 6, 2019 to July 6, 2020.

Finance

IOHK Invests Six-Figure Sum Into Crypto Asset Manager Wave Financial

Charles Hoskinson, IOHK's CEO, will become an adviser to Wave Financial as part of the deal.

By Paddy BakerJul 6, 2020

Markets

Coinbase Custody to Support Secure Cardano Staking This Year

Cardano users will be able to securely stake their ADA tokens from inside Coinbase's cold storage.

By Paddy BakerJul 3, 2020

Coinbase Custody CEO Sam McIngvale speaks at Invest: NYC 2019. (Zack Seward/CoinDesk)

Finance

Cardano Developer IOHK Launches $20M Fund for Ecosystem Startups

The cFund will invest anywhere between $250,000 and $500,000 into startups and small businesses using Cardano or IOHK tech initiatives.

By Paddy BakerJul 3, 2020

Markets

First Mover: Cardano's No Ethereum Killer Yet, but It's Winning in Crypto Markets

Cardano's ADA token is racking up impressive gains this year, possibly over speculation the network's early adoption of a proof-of-stake blockchain might help it win a growing share of the DeFi space.

By Daniel Cawrey, Omkar GodboleJun 15, 2020

Trevor Koverko and Charles Hoskinson (right) at CoinDesk Construct 2019 (Credit: CoinDesk archives)

Tech

The Free Market Will Determine Cardano's Fate: IOHK's Charles Hoskinson

A high token price gives a project crucial staying power, Hoskinson tells CoinDesk.

By Paddy BakerJun 5, 2020

Markets

Bitcoin Bumps Up, but for How Long?

Traditional markets continue to struggle during the coronavirus crisis while cryptocurrencies are seeing an upswing.

By Daniel CawreyMar 20, 2020

Markets

Fintech Think Tank Takes Legal Action Against Cardano Foundation

London-based think tank Z/Yen has taken legal action against the Cardano foundation for allegedly terminating a 2017 agreement.

By Paddy BakerMar 17, 2020

Tech

IOHK Opens Cardano Research Lab at University of Wyoming Following $500K Donation

The blockchain center at the University of Wyoming will feature a Plutus development facility, providing blockchain developers with an applied laboratory for writing code in cardano's smart-contract language.

By Paddy BakerFeb 14, 2020