Silver's Up 17% in 1 Month: 3 Stocks to Ride the Surge

Core Viewpoint - Silver prices have experienced significant growth, with a 17% increase in January and a forecasted rise to $150 per ounce, driven by strong industrial demand and supply constraints [1][2]. Group 1: Silver Market Dynamics - Silver's price surged 103% in 2025, contrasting with a mere 117% increase over the previous nine years [1]. - Heavy industrial demand for silver is driven by its use in electric vehicles, solar panels, AI data centers, and defense equipment, making it the top conductor of electricity among elements [2]. - China's tighter export controls are limiting silver supply, even as the country aims to expand its clean energy capacity significantly, with each solar panel containing approximately 0.64 ounces of silver [3]. Group 2: Investment Opportunities - iShares Silver Trust: This ETF reflects silver's performance and holds physical silver bullion, with an expense ratio of 0.50%, lower than the category average [5][6]. The ETF has returned 19% in 2026 so far [6]. - First Majestic Silver: This mining company derives 57% of its revenue from silver, achieving record production of 4.2 million ounces last quarter, with a year-to-date share increase of 25% [8][10]. It pays a small dividend of 0.08% [11]. - Wheaton Precious Metals: This firm provides financing for mining projects and has a profit margin of 54.7%, with quarterly earnings up 123% year over year. Its shares have increased by 109% over the last 12 months [12][14].