Solana's native token SOL sunk 4.61% over the past 24 hours to $20.66, down from $21.66 yesterday. With a market capitalization of $8.43 billion, Solana ranks as the 9th largest cryptocurrency project. In this report, we'll analyze Solana's latest price action and uncover key insights for traders.

Looking at the data, SOL saw trading volume of $300.62 million over the past 24 hours. This points to active trading despite the falling prices. Over the past week, SOL is down 6.11% as the selloff has accelerated. Zooming out further, the monthly and 6-month percentage changes paint a grimmer picture. SOL has shed 10.56% over the past month and 7.78% over the past 6 months.

The broader crypto market weakness provides context for Solana's decline. Bitcoin has fallen 3% in the past 24 hours, dragging down other altcoins as well. Solana has also faced negative headlines recently about network outages and relied upon centralized infrastructure. This has likely shaken investor confidence. However, Solana remains one of the leading smart contract platforms with fast transaction speeds.

Predicting SOL's Near-Term Outlook

Based on the data and market conditions, here are some potential scenarios for SOL's price action in the coming days and weeks:

• Continued selling could see SOL test support around $18. This psychological level halted declines multiple times in 2022.
• Bounces from the $18 level could then see SOL trade sideways between $18-$22 as buyers and sellers reach equilibrium.
• A bullish breakout above $22 resistance is less likely in the near-term given bearish sentiment, but can't be ruled out entirely.

SOL's technicals indicate the path of least resistance is to the downside despite its strong long-term growth narrative. Traders may want to wait for a definitive chart reversal before getting bullish again.

How Should Solana Traders Manage Risk?

Solana's high volatility increases the imperative for traders to actively manage risk. Here are two effective strategies:

1. Use stop-loss orders on all positions to contain losses. Gradually raising stop-losses protects profits as the trade moves favorably.
2. Diversify into non-correlated crypto assets like Bitcoin and stablecoins. This prevents the entire portfolio from suffering during SOL sell-offs.

Through prudent risk management, Solana traders can survive short-term volatility while maintaining exposure for big long-term gains.

What Are Optimal Entry Points for Solana Bulls?

Solana's technical state means bottom fishing is perilous in the near-term. But for long-term investors, these levels could offer appealing entry opportunities:

• The $18 support level marked SOL's bottom through most of 2022. A bounce here would signal bullish commitment.
• The 200-week moving average near $15 is a crucial long-term trend indicator. Buying near it could lead to massive upside.
• The $10-$12 zone lines up with Fibonacci support and SOL's ultimate 2021 breakout point. This is the final major support if $18 fails.

Bulls want clear confirmation of a bottom before entering. But dollar-cost averaging around these critical levels could produce substantial returns over time as Solana expands.

In conclusion, Solana faces short-term headwinds but retains substantial long-term potential. By analyzing the data, traders can time entries and exits to generate profits while limiting downside. Solana's committed community, rapid growth, and technical strength point to brighter days ahead after its current retracement concludes.