What does Axelar do?

Could you kindly explain what Axelar's role is in the cryptocurrency landscape? I'm curious to understand how it fits into the broader financial ecosystem and what unique functionalities it offers. Could you elaborate on its core functionalities, any potential applications, and maybe even mention any partnerships or integrations it has with other key players in the industry? I'm particularly interested in how it might facilitate cross-chain interoperability and enhance the overall user experience. Thank you for your insights.