Ethereum is a decentralized platform that utilizes blockchain technology to enable developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a team of co-founders, Ethereum has become a significant player in the digital currency revolution, paving the way for innovations in various sectors, including finance, gaming, and supply chain management. Unlike Bitcoin, which primarily serves as a digital currency, Ethereum's primary focus is on enabling programmable transactions through its built-in programming language, Solidity. This flexibility allows developers to create a wide range of applications that can operate without the need for intermediaries.

The impact of Ethereum on the digital currency landscape is profound, as it fosters an ecosystem where digital assets can be easily traded, borrowed, and invested. By utilizing smart contracts, users can automate various processes, reducing the need for human intervention and improving efficiency. Furthermore, Ethereum's transition to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism with Ethereum 2.0 aims to enhance the scalability and security of the network, making it more accessible to users globally. As more individuals and organizations recognize the potential of Ethereum, its role in the ongoing digital currency revolution is set to expand further, driving innovation and financial inclusion worldwide.

Smart contracts have become a fundamental pillar in the success of Ethereum, enabling unparalleled levels of automation and trustlessness in digital transactions. Unlike traditional contracts, which are often hampered by burdensome legal processes, smart contracts operate on decentralized blockchain technology. This means that once a contract is deployed, it operates exactly as programmed without the need for a middleman or intermediary, thus eliminating the risk of manipulation or fraud. The ramifications of this technology are immense, allowing developers to create decentralized applications (dApps) that can facilitate everything from financial services to supply chain management.

To understand the true potential of smart contracts, it’s essential to explore their features and benefits. Smart contracts are self-executing, meaning they automatically execute transactions once predetermined conditions are met. This automation leads to enhanced efficiency as it reduces the time and resources typically squandered on manual interventions. Furthermore, the transparency inherent in Ethereum’s blockchain offers an additional layer of security, allowing all parties involved to view the contract's terms and its execution, thereby fostering trust among users. As this technology continues to evolve, it is poised to redefine the way agreements are made and executed in the digital world.

As Ethereum evolves, it continues to solidify its position as a cornerstone of global finance. The introduction of Ethereum 2.0 brings a plethora of innovations, including the transition from a proof-of-work to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism. This shift not only enhances the network's efficiency but also significantly reduces energy consumption, making Ethereum more sustainable and appealing to environmentally-conscious investors. Additionally, the implementation of shard chains is expected to vastly improve the network’s scalability, allowing it to handle thousands of transactions per second. These advancements pave the way for Ethereum to support a wide array of decentralized applications (dApps) that could revolutionize various sectors, from banking to supply chain management.

The potential impact of Ethereum on global finance cannot be overstated. With the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi), Ethereum empowers individuals and businesses to access financial services without traditional intermediaries. This democratization of finance can lead to higher financial inclusion, especially in developing regions where unbanked populations prevail. Moreover, smart contracts facilitate automated and transparent transactions, minimizing the risks associated with fraud and error. As more institutional players and governments explore blockchain technology, Ethereum's innovations position it as a pivotal player in reshaping the financial landscape, paving the way for a more inclusive and efficient global economy.