Silver prices have surged over 33% in 2025, hitting their highest level in more than a decade and outperforming gold. Analysts attribute the rally to renewed trade optimism and looming supply shortages, with experts saying the upswing may continue if energy costs remain low.
Unlike gold, over half of silver demand comes from industrial uses like electronics, chemicals, and medical equipment, as well as growing sectors such as renewable energy, AI, and defense. The Silver Institute reports rising demand from 993 million ounces in 2016 to 1.16 billion in 2024, while supply has declined, creating a structural deficit.
A BullionVault survey predicts silver could reach $41 per ounce by year-end, 42% above January levels. However, silver’s price remains volatile, with risks including tariffs and energy policy changes that could impact industrial demand. Investors can access silver through physical bullion, ETFs, miner shares, or commodity funds.