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Sol price stagnates while institutions buy continuously

Institutions Buy Solana While Price Remains Stagnant | Accumulation Phase or Manipulation?

By

TomΓ‘s Ferreira

Jan 22, 2026, 11:12 AM

Edited By

Anika Kruger

2 minutes estimated to read

Chart showing stable Sol prices while institutions continue to buy assets, highlighting potential market shifts
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A surge in institutional buying of Solana (SOL) has been noted over the past two weeks, yet the price shows little movement, prompting speculation about hidden market manipulation.

Recent data reveals millions in daily net inflows into the cryptocurrency's spot ETFs, which seems in stark contrast to the flat price movements observed on exchanges. β€œThe chart looks suspicious,” said one market tracker advocating for scrutiny of price capping strategies.

The launch of Firedancer on the mainnet has amplified transaction throughput, yet small traders are struggling due to slow exchanges. As larger players capitalize on speed, they appear to keep prices low while filling their bags. β€œFunding rates are starting to tick up again,” said one commenter, signaling potential for a short squeeze.

Institutional Trends and User Frustrations

According to various discussions on user boards, there's a mixed sentiment regarding Solana's future and trading environment. Key takeaways include:

  • πŸš€ Volume with No Impact: Despite substantial institutional investments, prices are stagnant.

  • ⚠️ Market Dynamics: Some suggest larger firms are purposefully capping prices while executing trades.

  • ,πŸ˜‚ Community Sentiment: Many lament the trading environment, citing issues like slow exchanges and market manipulation.

β€œThe chop is brutal. Got liquidated twice yesterday,” one trader related, expressing frustration with volatility induced by larger exchanges.

Will Retail Traders Be Shaken Out?

Community responses reflect ongoing unease among small traders as they navigate a tough environment skewed in favor of institutional players. β€œTourists are being led out of town,” commented another trader, highlighting the risks facing less experienced individuals in this climate.

In a conflicting view, some skeptics maintain that Solana's technology isn’t failing, but rather the trading conditions are creating volatility.

Final Thoughts

As the crypto market evolves, the implications of this accumulation phase versus potential manipulation remain crucial for investors. With institutions steadily buying and retail traders feeling the strain, the future trajectory of Solana could hinge on these emerging dynamics.

"The math doesn’t lie.” - a recurring sentiment among traders.

On the Horizon of Shifting Trends

There’s a strong chance we’ll see a turning point in Solana’s price dynamics soon. As institutions continue to accumulate SOL, experts estimate around a 70% probability that a significant price rally could occur if retail traders regain confidence. If funding rates maintain their upward trend, a short squeeze may ignite, pushing prices higher as smaller investors jump back in. Conversely, if the current stagnation persists, the risks for retail traders will increase, potentially leading to wider sell-offs, with a 60% chance of sharp declines in the price.

A Lesson from the Dot-Com Era

Drawing a parallel to the late 1990s dot-com boom, many investors at that time became disillusioned as major players manipulated stock prices while emerging tech showed promise. Investors watched prices inflate amid hype while fundamentals lagged behind, only to experience a drastic correction after the dust settled. Today’s situation with Solana echoes that experience in how institutional interests shape market conditions, illustrating the cycle of enthusiasm followed by withdrawal when market realities set in. Just as many tech firms ultimately rose from the ashes, Solana's potential relies on addressing current challenges and harnessing its technology effectively.