Does ETH have a future?

Ethereum is the most well-known altcoin, and it’s much more than just another cryptocurrency for many investors and enthusiasts alike. And despite its rough first half of the year, experts predict it could still get back above $4,000 in 2022.

Ethereum’s native token, ether (ETH), has grown immensely in value since its creation in 2015. Launched by computer programmer Vitalik Buterin, ether has increased in price from $0.311 at its 2015 launch to around $4,800 at its highest late last year — with plenty of volatility along the way.

A differentiating feature for ethereum — unlike bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies — is its utility as a software network that allows developers to build and power new tools, apps, and NFTs. The blockchain-based software network has many uses and applications across the tech world, especially for gaming, music, entertainment, and decentralized finance (DeFi) — making it one of the most popular and widely-used cryptos this past year.

But, like bitcoin, ether is having a rough time at year’s end.