Ethereum News

Ethereum (ETH) was launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a team of co-founders as the world's first programmable blockchain, enabling smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) that extend far beyond simple peer-to-peer transactions. After transitioning from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake consensus through "The Merge" in 2022, Ethereum now processes transactions more efficiently while maintaining its position as the foundation for decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 innovation.

The Ethereum ecosystem encompasses thousands of decentralized applications, from DeFi protocols like Uniswap and Aave to NFT marketplaces, gaming platforms, and layer-2 scaling solutions like Arbitrum and Polygon. Developers, validators, and users interact within this programmable economy where ETH serves as both a digital currency and the fuel powering smart contract execution through gas fees.

CoinDesk covers all aspects of Etherum, from protocol upgrades and scaling developments to DeFi innovation and regulatory implications. Our reporters track everything from Ethereum's roadmap milestones and staking developments to the broader implications of programmable money and decentralized autonomous organizations.

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

Web3

Decentralized autonomous organizations need a rethink, Ethereum co-founder says

He called for a new wave of DAOs that focus on critical functions, like data maintenance and dispute resolution, with more sophisticated governance.

By Francisco Rodrigues, AI BoostJan 19, 2026

Markets

Etherealize co-founders: ETH will hit $15,000 by 2027

Etherealize co-founders Vivek Raman and Danny Ryan believe Ethereum is exiting a regulatory "purgatory" to become the premiere destination for Wall Street.

By Jennifer SanasieJan 16, 2026

Etherealize co-founders on Markets Outlook

Tech

Tom Lee's BitMine pushes Ethereum into $8 billion staking backlog

New validators now need to wait more than 44 days to start earning staking rewards, the biggest backlog since late July 2023.

By Krisztian Sandor, Margaux NijkerkJan 16, 2026

People standing in a line, silhouetted against a large window.

Markets

Bitcoin's next big test is breaking through $100,000: Asia Morning Briefing

Bitcoin steadies near $95K as prediction markets, market makers, and desks point to a momentum-driven run at $100K rather than a decisive breakout.

By Sam ReynoldsJan 16, 2026

Bitcoin (TheDigitalArtist/Pixabay, modified by CoinDesk)

Finance

Tom Lee says BitMine's $200 million bet on MrBeast could '10x'

BitMine Chair Tom Lee told investors that the company could generate over $400 million income on its $13 billion worth of ether holdings, primarily via staking.

By Krisztian SandorJan 15, 2026

Markets

Bitcoin and ether's sharp breakouts liquidate nearly $700 million short positions

Bitcoin's breakout above $95,000 rejuvenated risk appetite, with one market strategist saying that the crypto rally has legs.

By Krisztian SandorJan 14, 2026

Bitcoin (BTC) price on Jan. 14 (CoinDesk)

Tech

The Protocol: Vitalik Buterin flags stablecoin design flaws

Also: Zcash token falls after developer quits, Smart Cashtags and BTC quantum computing defense

By Margaux NijkerkJan 14, 2026

Finance

Bank of Italy economist sends out warning on Ethereum's role in financial system

The study suggests that Ethereum's role in financial systems makes its token economics a concern for regulators, who may need to consider safeguards for its use in regulated finance.

By Shaurya MalwaJan 13, 2026