Is Solana Approaching a Critical Turning Point at $146?

Solana (SOL) has long been a focal point for crypto investors, and as the price hovers near the $146 level in late 2025, the cryptocurrency stands at a pivotal crossroads. This price zone, historically a confluence of demand and resistance, has become a battleground for bulls and bears. Technical analysts and on-chain observers are closely monitoring whether Solana can break out of its consolidation phase or succumb to renewed bearish pressure.

Technical Breakout Potential: A Path to $180+?

The $146 level represents a critical inflection point for Solana. If buyers can defend this zone, it could validate a bullish reversal and set the stage for a rally toward $156–$160, as suggested by Elliott Wave and TD Sequential analyses. A decisive break above $145–$146 would also signal strength, with the next major target at $180–$190-a formidable resistance zone that, if breached, could propel the price toward previous highs beyond $220–$230.

Key support levels below $146 are equally significant. The $130 level, now acting as support after previously functioning as resistance, has shown resilience. Immediate support at $120 and deeper levels at $112–$100 remain critical for bearish scenarios according to MEXC analysis. However, bulls have reason for optimism: improving indicators like MACD bullish divergence and RSI recovery suggest buyers are regaining control.

The symmetrical triangle pattern forming near $146 adds another layer of complexity. If buyers can hold this zone, it could trigger a breakout toward $180–$200 as predicted by Brave New Coin. Volume patterns, while mixed, show mild expansion during recent upticks, hinting at potential institutional interest.

Bearish Risks: Divergence, Volume, and Structural Weaknesses

Despite the bullish case, several red flags persist. Hidden bearish divergence-where price makes lower highs but the MACD line forms higher highs- signals potential bearish pressure. This divergence, combined with derivative market data showing elevated funding rates and open interest, suggests short-term bearish imbalances.

Volume patterns also raise concerns. While a high-volume node near $145.76 reinforces the zone's significance, recent rejections at $148 highlight structural weaknesses. A breakdown below $140–$142 could trigger a cascade of selling, testing $120 or even $100. A break below $116.88 would invalidate the current bullish thesis entirely, potentially leading to a 18–22% drop to $110–$105.

The $146 level is further complicated by Solana's position 45.65% below its 52-week high of $247.50. This overhead resistance creates a psychological barrier for buyers, especially in a market still grappling with broader macroeconomic uncertainties.

Balancing the Scales: What Investors Should Watch

For Solana to achieve a sustainable breakout, volume confirmation will be critical. Strong on-chain strength and above-average volume during a rally above $146 would signal genuine buyer conviction. Conversely, a failure to defend $146 with shrinking volume could accelerate a retest of $138 or $131.11.

Investors must also monitor derivative metrics, which currently show mixed signals. While RSI and MACD suggest bullish momentum, funding rates and open interest indicate lingering bearish pressure. This duality underscores the market's indecision and the need for patience.

Conclusion

Solana's $146 level is undeniably a critical turning point. A successful breakout could reignite the bullish narrative, propelling the price toward $180 and beyond. However, structural weaknesses, bearish divergences, and volume patterns suggest the path is far from guaranteed. Investors should treat this zone with caution, using it as a reference for both entry and exit strategies. As the market navigates this juncture, the coming weeks will likely determine whether Solana reclaims its status as a breakout star or faces renewed bearish headwinds.