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Solana (SOL) has been at the center of attention in the crypto market, with its price facing mounting pressure despite earlier outperforming Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and lately Ripple (XRP) in 2024. Recent data paints a mixed picture for Solana's future, as it battles to maintain its momentum. With the potential for new ETF approvals, major funding inflows, and game-changing infrastructure developments, many investors are eyeing 2025 as a possible breakthrough year for Solana to achieve a new all-time high (ATH). But will it be enough to reignite bullish momentum?
Current Solana Price Struggles
At the time of writing, Solana’s price is $216, reflecting a 0.71% dip over the past 24 hours. This recent decline underscores a larger struggle for the token, especially when viewed alongside its monthly performance of -9.07%. Although SOL’s year-to-date (YTD) gain stands at an impressive +112.36%, it pales in comparison to XRP’s +137.33% monthly growth. Moreover, Solana’s market cap of $103.49B places it just ahead of Binance Coin (BNB) with $102.94B, suggesting that SOL risks falling from its #5 position in the rankings.
Capital Flows: Glassnode’s Analysis on Solana’s Lag
According to on-chain analytics firm Glassnode, Solana’s underperformance compared to Bitcoin and Ethereum is linked to capital outflows. Earlier in Q4 2024, Solana’s realized cap was on a rapid rise, surpassing that of BTC and ETH. However, since early December, this trend has shifted, with BTC and ETH overtaking Solana. The Realized Cap indicator, which tracks the cost basis of all coins in circulation, shows that fewer funds are entering SOL compared to BTC and ETH.
Major Developments Driving Solana’s Growth Potential
1. Institutional Demand & Spot ETF Potential
The possibility of a spot Solana ETF is one of the biggest catalysts for future price growth. Companies like VanEck and Bitwise have already submitted filings for a spot ETF, signaling a rise in institutional demand. Such an approval could lead to substantial inflows, similar to what Bitcoin experienced with its ETF launch.
2. Infrastructure Improvements via Firedancer
Solana’s network is set to receive a major upgrade with the implementation of Firedancer, an alternative client developed by Jump Trading. This enhancement is expected to increase transaction speed, boost scalability, and reduce reliance on a single codebase, thereby strengthening the network’s security. The full deployment of Firedancer is anticipated in 2025, aligning with predictions for Solana’s potential breakthrough.
3. Record-High Funding
Messari’s Q3 2024 report revealed that Solana’s ecosystem funding reached a record $173 million, marking the highest level since mid-2022. This funding showcases increased confidence in Solana’s future as a leading blockchain platform. Such financial backing often precedes significant market movements, as seen with other top-performing blockchains.
Technical Outlook: Key Levels To Watch
Solana’s price remains above the crucial support level of $210, a point that many analysts view as a springboard for the next major rally. Technical analyst Jelle has pointed out that Solana’s monthly chart is "primed for a monster run," citing the support flip at this key level. If SOL can maintain its position above $210 and break through the $245 resistance, analysts predict a potential surge to new highs.
Solana 2025 Price Prediction: Will Solana Hit a New ATH?
While no one can guarantee future price movements, there is growing optimism for Solana’s performance in 2025. Many analysts believe that favorable regulations, ETF launches, and key network upgrades could propel the price beyond its previous all-time high (ATH) of $263. Messari’s analysis suggests that with institutional support and the deployment of Firedancer, SOL could even challenge Bitcoin and Ethereum for market dominance. Some forecasts are especially bullish, predicting SOL’s price could climb as high as $4,000 if all key factors align.
Solana’s price struggles in late 2024 are undeniable, with recent performance lagging behind its rivals Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, 2025 could mark a transformative year for Solana. With ETF approvals on the horizon, network upgrades via Firedancer, and strong institutional support, the possibility of reaching a new ATH is within reach. While challenges remain, the factors driving Solana’s potential breakthrough are stronger than ever. Investors are watching closely, knowing that any positive developments in ETF regulation or Firedancer’s deployment could send Solana soaring to new heights.