TLDR
- Over 20.9 million SOL is held by treasury companies, signaling strong confidence.
- Solana could see a price surge if a staking ETF is approved by the SEC.
- Analysts predict SOL could reach $300 as institutional money flows in.
- Despite recent dips, technicals suggest Solana remains in an uptrend.
As the potential approval of a Solana staking ETF by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) gains momentum, the focus shifts to how institutional investors might respond. If approved, such an ETF could offer these investors a regulated avenue to access Solana’s staking yields. This, in turn, could lead to significant capital inflows, a reduced circulating supply, and possibly trigger a price surge for Solana (SOL). Analysts are already eyeing targets of $300 or more, fueled by growing institutional interest.
Institutional Confidence in Solana
Treasury companies have been accumulating substantial amounts of Solana. Reports indicate that over 20.9 million SOL, around 3.64% of the total supply, is held by institutions. The largest holder, Forward Industries, owns approximately 6.8 million SOL, valued at roughly $1.4 billion. This concentration of Solana in institutional hands underscores the market confidence in the asset, suggesting that large players are positioning themselves ahead of potential ETF approvals.
Analyst Nate Geraci has indicated that several Solana staking ETF filings could be approved soon. This approval would mimic the market shift seen when Ethereum-related products gained approval, bringing more institutional money into the market. As institutional investors gain access to staking rewards through ETFs, the demand for SOL could rise, and the circulating supply in the market could decrease. With less SOL available, the natural market reaction may drive prices higher.
Solana’s Technical Outlook
From a technical standpoint, Solana has recently experienced a dip below $200. However, many analysts argue that this correction could be a temporary pullback within an ongoing uptrend. The current market structure suggests that the price may be retesting key support levels. Some technical observers believe this represents a buying opportunity before prices rise toward the $260 mark and eventually exceed $300.
SOL has maintained its position within a parallel channel, with its ascending support holding firm despite the recent pullback. According to one trader, this could mark an ideal opportunity for buying, with $300 seen as a natural target in the upcoming rally. Other analysts have speculated that the market might be in the final stages of a Wyckoff accumulation phase. If this scenario plays out, it could signal the “last big dip” before Solana experiences a strong rally in Q4.
Potential for Major Price Movement
If institutional interest continues to grow, Solana’s price could see upward pressure. The combination of a potential Solana staking ETF and the strong positioning of institutional investors suggests that SOL is well-placed for future growth. Many analysts are optimistic about Solana reaching new highs within the current cycle, with some predicting a target of $500.
However, caution is advised due to recent slowdowns in Solana’s on-chain activity. Data from September showed a decrease in transactions and network activity, which could affect market sentiment. Nonetheless, many still believe that Solana’s fundamentals remain strong, and the ongoing institutional interest might counterbalance short-term challenges.
Solana’s Road Ahead
As October approaches, the crypto market is keeping a close eye on developments surrounding Solana and the potential approval of a staking ETF. Institutional investors are likely to be key players in driving price momentum, as their involvement could significantly reduce Solana’s circulating supply and push prices higher. While some analysts are confident that SOL could break through the $300 threshold in the near term, others remain cautious due to recent market fluctuations.
At the time of writing, Solana is trading around $210.21, showing a modest 4.2% increase over the past 24 hours. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the SEC’s decision and how institutional investors respond in the coming weeks. If an ETF is approved, Solana’s trajectory could change, potentially marking the beginning of a new price cycle.
Stay Ahead of the Market with Benzinga Pro!
Want to trade like a pro? Benzinga Pro gives you the edge you need in today's fast-paced markets. Get real-time news, exclusive insights, and powerful tools trusted by professional traders:
- Breaking market-moving stories before they hit mainstream media
- Live audio squawk for hands-free market updates
- Advanced stock scanner to spot promising trades
- Expert trade ideas and on-demand support