Ethereum Classic

Ethereum Classic is a smart contract platform operating on proof-of-work consensus, maintaining the original Ethereum chain after the 2016 DAO fork. It executes decentralized applications and settlements on its EVM-compatible network, secured by miners. ETC has a capped supply schedule and functions as both network fuel (gas) and store of value within its ecosystem. The network processes transactions and contract execution similarly to its larger predecessor, though with materially lower throughput and adoption.

Traders monitor ETC primarily as a barometer of proof-of-work sentiment and mining economics, particularly following Ethereum's transition to proof-of-stake. It trades across major venues with moderate spot liquidity and serves as a secondary indicator of GPU mining viability. ETC exhibits high correlation with broader cryptocurrency cycles and Ethereum price action, while maintaining distinct micro-structure during periods of mining difficulty shifts or consensus debate. Its position as a legacy chain with committed development community makes it relevant to thematic rotation trades and mining-sector hedges.