## SOL Trading Pulse: Market Pressure Intensifies Amid Mixed Signals

Solana is experiencing significant downward pressure in today's session, with the price retreating from recent highs near $186.80 down to the $174–$175 zone. The shift from bullish momentum to bearish control is evident on short-term charts dominated by red candles. Within a span of just two hours, whale net outflows hit 162K SOL—a substantial volume that underscores profit-taking activity among large holders and sophisticated participants.

**Whale Behavior Sends Mixed Signals**

The selling intensity has been notable, with 146K SOL in net outflows recorded during peak liquidation hours. However, beneath the surface, accumulation patterns are beginning to emerge. A prominent whale address recently deployed $12M to acquire 71K SOL, subsequently staking the position through Kamino. This move suggests that despite short-term weakness, conviction remains strong among certain institutional players. Galaxy Digital's unstaking activity adds another layer to the narrative—while some entities are locking in gains, others continue to build positions at lower levels.

**Fundamentals Paint a Stronger Picture**

The broader network story contradicts the bearish price action. Institutional capital continues flowing in, with approximately $137M in ETF inflows observed since mid-July. Solana's Total Value Locked has reached a three-year high when measured in SOL terms, and transaction throughput remains at record levels. These metrics suggest underlying strength that may eventually translate into price recovery.

**Key Levels and Next Moves**

The $175 support zone is critical. A break and hold above $178 with volume could target $181–$183, followed by potential resistance at $189–$200. Conversely, a failure to defend $174 risks pushing SOL further downward with accelerating bearish momentum.

**Strategy for Different Participants**

Long-term holders should avoid capitulation selling near support levels and remain positioned for a potential bounce. New buyers should exercise patience, waiting for clearer reversal signals before committing capital. Active traders managing risk should place stops just below $174 to control downside exposure.

The combination of strong fundamentals, rising institutional interest, and selective whale accumulation suggests that sentiment reversal could trigger a sharp price recovery in SOL. The current pullback, while uncomfortable, may offer strategic entry opportunities for those with conviction in Solana's network trajectory.