3 Silver Mining Stocks to Buy From a Prospering Industry

Industry Overview - The Zacks Mining - Silver industry is experiencing promising prospects due to rising silver prices, with global industrial demand projected at approximately 1.15 billion ounces, while supply is expected to be lower, indicating a fifth consecutive year of deficit [1][6] - The industry comprises companies engaged in the exploration, development, and production of silver, with only 20% of silver coming from mining activities where silver is the primary revenue source [3] Demand and Supply Dynamics - Total silver demand is expected to dip 1% to 1.148 billion ounces in 2025, with industrial use dominating at around 677.4 million ounces, accounting for 59% of total demand [4] - Silver prices have increased by approximately 22% in 2024 and 41% in the current year, supported by economic uncertainties and solid demand amid tight supply [5] - Global silver supply is projected to rise 2% in 2025 to 1.031 billion ounces, but demand will exceed this, leading to a deficit of 117.6 million ounces [6] Cost Management and Operational Efficiency - Industry players are facing rising production costs, with around 50% of production costs linked to energy prices, prompting companies to focus on improving sales volumes and cost-effectiveness [7] - Companies are investing in R&D and technological innovations to enhance operational efficiency and sustain growth [7] Stock Performance and Valuation - The Zacks Mining - Silver industry ranks 31, placing it in the top 13% of 245 Zacks industries, indicating bright prospects in the near term [8][9] - The industry has outperformed the Basic Materials sector and the Zacks S&P 500 composite over the past year, with a collective gain of 64% compared to the sector's 7.1% rise [10] Company Highlights - Fresnillo (FNLPF): Silver production decreased by 11.7% year-over-year to 24.9 million ounces in the first half of 2025, but gold production increased by 15.9%. The company expects total silver equivalent production of 91-102 million ounces in 2025 [17][18] - Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. (ASM): The company regained full ownership of its La Preciosa project, with production of 1.32 million silver equivalent ounces in the first half of 2025, up 6% year-over-year [22][23] - Hecla Mining (HL): Reported record revenues of $304 million and adjusted EBITDA of $132.5 million in Q2 2025, with silver production of 4.5 million ounces, an increase of 10% compared to the prior quarter [26][27]