What Lies Ahead for Ethereum in 2019?

Constantinople Set for Release in 2019

Shrouded in controversy, Constantinople is set to finally launch in early 2019 after a series of delays. Unlike previous updates to the backbone of this blockchain system, the sweeping changes that Constantinople will bring in will be irreversible.

Some nodes in the Ethereum chain have vowed to resist the coming changes. This stance will result in segments operating apart from the rest of the Ethereum system – this isn’t anything new, though, as the last controversial change led to a large chunk of the ecosystem breaking off and forming a crypto network known as Ethereum Classic.

These changes are not expected casual users in any meaningful way. Instead, the Constantinople update is set to make complex changes that will allow for enhancements in network efficiency, a change in the fee structure, and a delay in the triggering of the difficulty bomb (a process that would freeze Ether creation).

In short, there is no reason for the average Ethereum holder to avoid the Constantinople update. If you do, you might not be able to indulge in crypto gaming. Similar to fiat gaming sites, they allow you to deposit your Ethereum (or bitcoin, or a variety of other altcoins) and play games like blackjack, roulette, and other classic casino favourites.

Not sure which sites to join? There are several legit options listed here – give them a look and you might find a site that resonates with you.

Another Speculative Bubble Is Possible

Think the Wall Street pump and dumpers are done using cryptocurrencies as their own wealth creation tool? Despite the 90%+ crash they caused through hyperbolic pitches that targeted Bitcoin and Ethereum, they are at it again.

Advertising it as just another ‘normal’ cycle in the life of cryptocurrencies, they are selling current low prices as a ‘Black Friday’ sale of sorts. It appears to have worked – after ETH bottomed out earlier this week, it has jumped 20% from $80 to settle just above $100.

Because of people’s short memories, there’s a good chance this turns into another bubble, until the next bit of negative news drives the price down again. Personally, we hate this, as this speculation makes Ethereum look like a pyramid scheme rather than what it really is – an open-source decentralized system that anyone can build programs for.

Ethereum 2.0 May Be Set for Release by End of Year

Constantinople isn’t the only major software release coming in 2019 – if developers can pull it together in the coming year, we might see the launch of the long-awaited Ethereum 2.0. When it does drop, you can expect to see the debut of the proof-of-stake algorithm, security and efficiency upgrades, and technical changes that will make scaling the entire network easier.

Bug testing has pushed back the launch several times already, but this approach is understandable, as the original Ethereum release in 2014 was plagued by operational issues that engineers want to avoid this time around.