# Ethereum Ethereum is a [cryptoasset](cryptoasset.md) that extends the [bitcoin](bitcoin.md) model to allow the execution of [smart contracts](smart-contracts.md). ## Properties Ethereum is not a [currency](currency.md). Ethereum is a [speculative](speculation.md) investment. Ethereum is [deflationary](deflationary.md). Ethereum is a [bearer instrument](bearer-instrument.md). Ethereum has no [fundamental value](fundamental-value.md). Ethereum has no [use value](use-value.md). Ethereum has no [income-cashflows](income-cashflows.md). Ethereum has a [present-value](present-value.md) of zero. Ethereum has a [terminal-value](terminal-value.md) of zero. Ethereum is a [greater-fool theory](greater-fool-theory.md) asset. Ethereum is a [non-productive](productive-asset.md) investment. Ethereum has a negative [expected return](expected-return.md). Ethereum is a [security](security.md). Ethereum is based on the [consensus algorithm](consensus-algorithm.md) known as Proof of Work [mining](mining.md).