What is Cardano best for?

Could you elaborate on the specific strengths and areas where Cardano truly excels? Is it best suited for smart contract development, scalability, privacy protection, or perhaps a combination of these factors? As a professional in the field, how would you characterize Cardano's unique selling points that set it apart from other blockchain platforms? Additionally, what specific use cases or industries does Cardano particularly cater to, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a robust and versatile blockchain solution?