At around $87, Solana has lost approximately 66 % of its all‑time high reached in early 2025. Against the backdrop of a broader market downturn and risk‑averse investor sentiment, SOL currently stands out as one of the most volatile and controversial cryptocurrencies. Nevertheless, it’s too early to declare Solana’s demise. There is a scenario under which the project could recover as soon as 2026! In an optimistic outlook, the token’s price could return to $250, and in the long term, it might achieve even more substantial growth.
From Memecoins to Stablecoins
One of Solana’s key challenges today is its excessive dependence on memecoins. According to some estimates, up to half of the ecosystem’s revenue is generated through trading memecoins on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) operating within the Solana network.
The situation is further complicated by legal risks. At the end of last year, numerous scandals erupted around memecoins, and Solana found itself at the center of debates about potential liability for blockchain platforms that facilitate speculation. Anyone who has ever bought a “hype” token for hundreds of dollars—only to watch it plummet to zero in mere days—will immediately understand why crypto lawyers are staying busy these days.
However, analysts at Standard Chartered, having studied financial flows within the Solana network, have noted an important shift. Revenue sources are gradually moving away from memecoins toward stablecoins—primarily micropayments in stablecoins. If this trend solidifies, Solana could well challenge Ethereum and claim a leading position in the realm of stablecoin transactions.
Is a $25 Newton Growth Realistic?
At first glance, the idea of SOL reaching $250 seems overly optimistic. It would imply nearly a threefold increase amid a weak and unstable crypto market.
But let’s recall: just one year ago, Solana was trading near $300. What has fundamentally changed over the past year—beyond investor sentiment? If the project manages to rebrand itself from a “memecoin blockchain” to an infrastructure for real‑world payment solutions and stablecoins, its growth potential will remain intact.
Other factors could also provide additional price support. These inсlude:
the emergence of companies building corporate reserves exclusively in SOL;
the launch of spot ETFs for Solana, including the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, which debuted in the fall.
A $2 000 target still feels more like a fantasy, but $250 is already a plausible goal—especially for those who embrace high volatility and risk!