Cardano is a blockchain platform that aims to provide a secure and scalable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications (dApps) and the execution of smart contracts. It was created by Charles Hoskinson, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, and his team at IOHK (Input Output Hong Kong).

Cardano is built on a unique proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm called Ouroboros, which aims to be more energy-efficient and scalable than traditional proof-of-work (PoW) systems like Bitcoin. It also incorporates academic research and a layered architecture to enhance security, scalability, and sustainability.

The platform uses two layers, the Cardano Settlement Layer (CSL) and the Cardano Computation Layer (CCL). The CSL is responsible for handling transactions and ADA, Cardano's native cryptocurrency, while the CCL handles smart contracts and dApps. This separation of layers allows for easier upgrades and maintenance without disrupting the core functionality.

Cardano also emphasizes a peer-reviewed approach to development, seeking formal verification and academic scrutiny of its protocols and technologies. The team aims to ensure the platform's security and reliability through rigorous research and collaboration with academic institutions.

The ADA cryptocurrency is used for transactions, staking, and participating in the platform's governance through a voting system. Users can stake their ADA coins to help secure the network and earn rewards for doing so.

Cardano has a strong focus on providing financial services to underserved populations and developing countries. It aims to promote financial inclusion by offering secure and accessible tools for individuals who do not have access to traditional banking services.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Cardano was still in the early stages of its development, with several key features and upgrades planned for the future. It had not fully implemented its smart contract functionality at that time, but the team was actively working on the rollout of the Alonzo era, which would bring smart contract capabilities to the Cardano network.

Please note that the information provided here is based on the knowledge available up to September 2021, and there may have been significant developments or updates to Cardano since then. It's always a good idea to refer to the official Cardano website or other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.