记者调查｜白银晋升全球第三大资产 深圳水贝上演“抢银风暴”

Core Viewpoint - Silver prices have experienced a historic surge in 2023, with the Shanghai Futures Exchange silver futures contract rising approximately 1.4 times and London spot silver prices increasing over 140%, making silver the strongest performing precious metal globally this year [1]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The recent surge in silver prices has led to a significant increase in demand, particularly in Shenzhen's wholesale market, where customers are actively purchasing silver bars and plates [4][6]. - The price of 1-kilogram silver bars and 15-kilogram silver plates has become particularly sought after, with reports of rapid sales and stock shortages among retailers [4][6]. - Retailers in Shenzhen's wholesale center are experiencing a cash influx as customers rush to buy silver, indicating a strong market sentiment towards silver as a valuable asset [3][4]. Group 2: Price Trends - As of December 4, the price of silver reached a new high of 13.378 yuan per gram, with the value of a 15-kilogram silver plate at approximately 200,000 yuan [6]. - The price of the 15-kilogram silver plate has reportedly increased by over 6,000 yuan daily in the past month, reflecting the high demand and limited supply [6][8]. - Despite the bullish trend, silver prices have shown volatility, with a notable drop of nearly 11% following a significant rise of almost 6% on December 29 [8][10]. Group 3: Market Sentiment and Speculation - Many retailers in Shenzhen anticipate further increases in silver prices, suggesting a strong market belief in the ongoing value appreciation of silver [8]. - The market is currently characterized by high volatility, influenced by supply shortages and speculative trading activities, which have been exacerbated by recent margin requirement increases announced by the CME Group [10]. - The adjustment in margin requirements aims to mitigate speculative activities in the silver and other precious metal markets, indicating a potential shift in trading dynamics [10].