Silver Showdown: Is SIL or SLV the Better Buy in 2026?

Core Insights - The iShares Silver Trust (SLV) and the Global X - Silver Miners ETF (SIL) provide different investment approaches to the silver market, with SLV tracking physical silver prices and SIL investing in silver mining companies [1][8]. Cost & Size - SLV has a lower expense ratio of 0.50% compared to SIL's 0.65%, making it more cost-effective for investors [3]. - As of January 26, 2026, SLV has a one-year return of 268.4% while SIL has a return of 247.4% [3]. - SLV has assets under management (AUM) of $38 billion, significantly larger than SIL's $5 billion [3]. - SIL offers a dividend yield of 1.18%, while SLV does not pay dividends [4]. Performance & Risk Comparison - Over five years, SLV has a maximum drawdown of -39.33%, while SIL has a higher drawdown of -55.79% [5]. - An investment of $1,000 in SLV would grow to $4,384 over five years, compared to $2,810 for SIL [5]. Portfolio Composition - SIL invests in 39 global silver mining stocks, focusing entirely on the Basic Materials sector, with major holdings in Wheaton Precious Metals, Pan American Silver, and Coeur Mining [6]. - SLV provides pure exposure to silver prices, with all assets linked to Real Estate as a proxy for physical silver holdings [7]. Investment Implications - SIL's focus on mining companies allows for potential higher returns when these companies perform well, but it also introduces greater risk if they underperform [9]. - SLV offers a straightforward investment in silver prices without the complexities associated with mining operations and equity market fluctuations [9]. - The choice between SLV and SIL depends on investor objectives, with SLV suitable for those seeking direct silver price exposure and SIL for those interested in the broader silver market including mining companies [10].