Solana Validator Performance Issues Highlighted by Solana Compass
Solana Compass, an independent validator scoring platform operational since 2021, has exposed deliberate slowdowns by certain validators aiming to capture high-value transactions. These actors widen their transaction intake windows to boost profits, causing tangible user delays. Last week, one epoch extended nearly an hour beyond expectations due to these practices. Notable offenders in Epoch 814 include several validators whose actions have significantly impacted network performance. This revelation underscores the need for improved validator accountability and network optimization to maintain Solana's competitive edge in the blockchain space. As of July 2025, the solana community is actively discussing solutions to address these challenges and ensure smoother operations moving forward.
Solana Compass Exposes Underperforming Validators Slowing Network Performance
Solana Compass, an independent validator scoring platform operational since 2021, has identified deliberate node slowdowns by certain validators aiming to capture high-value transactions. These actors widen their transaction intake windows to boost profits, causing tangible user delays. Last week, one epoch extended nearly an hour beyond expectations due to these practices.
Notable offenders in Epoch 814 included Galaxy, Kiln1, Kiln2, and Chorus One, with block times exceeding Solana's 400ms target—some reaching 800ms. The platform now penalizes validators consistently surpassing threshold delays. With 33% of stake concentrated in just 19 validators, network effects amplify rapidly.
Solana Matches All Other Chains Combined in Monthly Active Users
Solana (SOL) saw a slight decline of 1.45% over the past 24 hours, trading between $149.21 and $153.67 before settling NEAR the $149 support level. Despite short-term price weakness, on-chain data reveals Solana's dominance in user activity and network revenue.
Artemis data shows Solana matched the combined monthly active addresses of all other Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains in June 2025. The network generated over $271 million in Q2 2025—its third consecutive quarter leading all chains in revenue from fees and tips.
The metrics underscore Solana's position as one of the most actively used blockchains, with growing economic throughput and real-user adoption. The sustained revenue growth signals robust network fundamentals even amid volatile market conditions.
U.S. SEC Delays Fidelity’s Solana ETF Decision, Opens Public Comment Period
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has postponed its decision on Fidelity's proposed Solana ETF, initiating a 21-day public comment window. A subsequent 35-day rebuttal period will follow, mirroring the agency's approach to other altcoin ETF applications.
Industry sources indicate the SEC has requested amended S-1 filings from prospective Solana ETF issuers by July's end. This procedural MOVE suggests potential approval momentum, particularly following last week's greenlighting of a related Rex Shares product.
Bloomberg's senior ETF analyst projects over 90% likelihood of spot SOL ETF approvals before 2026. Market observers note the SEC faces mounting pressure to accelerate decisions, potentially bypassing typical October timelines.
Solana's Market Trajectory: Consolidation in 2025 with Long-Term Optimism
Solana (SOL) continues to assert itself as a leading blockchain platform, trading at $150.55—a 48.47% discount from its January 2025 all-time high of $294.33. The recent Memorandum of Understanding with Kazakhstan to establish Central Asia's first Solana Economic Zone underscores its expanding global footprint.
Short-term technical analysis suggests a consolidation phase, with July 2025 price projections ranging between $130 and $165. The Relative Strength Index at 48.76 and the 20-day SMA at $148.56 indicate neutral momentum, leaving bulls to defend key support levels for upward breakout potential.
Longer-term fundamentals remain robust, with $6.14 billion in open interest across crypto derivatives markets reflecting strong institutional confidence. Solana's dominance in high-throughput decentralized applications positions it favorably for the next market cycle.
Solana ETF Approval May Arrive Before October SEC Deadline
The SEC has urged Solana ETF issuers to refile documents by July-end, signaling a potential acceleration in the approval process. REX-Osprey SOL ETF’s recent approval has added pressure for a faster SEC response, positioning Solana to potentially become the third U.S.-listed spot crypto ETF.
Insider sources reveal the SEC's request includes technical details such as in-kind redemption processes and staking mechanisms. This marks a shift in the agency's approach to crypto fund regulation, with political and industry pressure driving increased ETF access for digital assets.
The unexpected launch of the REX-Osprey SOL and Staking ETF (SSK) has further intensified scrutiny on the broader SEC deadline. While most ETF vehicles undergo standard spot review, SSK's auto-approval under the Investment Company Act of 1940 has set a precedent.
Gunzilla Expands $GUN Token to Solana to Boost Web3 Gaming Ecosystem
Gunzilla Games, the developer behind the GUNZ blockchain and AAA title Off The Grid, is expanding its $GUN token to Solana. The move, set for July 10, aims to enhance accessibility and performance for a global user base. Dubbed "$GUN is Coming to Solana," the campaign will leverage Solana's high-speed, low-cost infrastructure to support scalability.
LayerZero will facilitate secure cross-chain transfers between GUNZ's proprietary LAYER 1, Avalanche’s C-Chain, and Solana. This integration is expected to unlock new partnerships and community-driven initiatives. A special edition NFT drop, themed around Solana, will commemorate the launch.
