Cardano (ADA)
Fact sheet · reviewed October 26, 2026
Cardano is a proof-of-stake blockchain founded by Ethereum co-founder Charles Hoskinson, launched in 2017 and known for a research-first approach. Its coin, ADA, is used for fees and staking.
Key facts
| Launched | September 2017 |
|---|---|
| Created by | Charles Hoskinson (IOG), with the Cardano Foundation and EMURGO |
| How it's secured | Proof of stake (Ouroboros) |
| Maximum supply | 45 billion ADA |
| Smallest unit | 1 lovelace = 0.000001 ADA |
| Smart contracts | Since September 2021 |
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What it's used for
Staking (ADA holders can delegate to stake pools without locking their coins), smart contracts and on-chain governance where ADA holders vote.
Risks to know
- Its app ecosystem is much smaller than Ethereum's or Solana's.
- ADA's price is volatile.
Buying and storing it
If you decide to buy, use a regulated exchange you reach directly, check fees with the true cost calculator, and store long-term holdings in a wallet you control. Read how to buy crypto safely. This page isn't a recommendation to buy.
Questions
Can I stake ADA?
Yes. Delegating to a stake pool keeps the ADA in your own wallet.
Where to next
Sources
Facts checked against the sources listed, as of October 26, 2026. Educational only; not financial advice.