Should You Buy the iShares Silver ETF After Its 28% Correction? History Says This Could Happen Next.

Group 1: Silver Market Overview - Silver is categorized as a precious metal, similar to gold, but has extensive industrial applications, with over half of its annual supply consumed by manufacturers in electronics and alloys [1] - The price of silver experienced a significant increase of 144% in 2025, driven by China's new export restrictions, but has since decreased by 28% from its peak price of $121 per ounce [2] - The iShares Silver Trust (NYSEMKT: SLV) is an ETF that tracks silver prices and is a popular alternative to physical silver due to lower associated costs [2] Group 2: Investment Dynamics - Investors typically turn to precious metals during periods of political and economic uncertainty, with gold being the primary choice due to its scarcity compared to silver [6] - The perceived value of precious metals tends to rise as fiat currency value declines, exemplified by the U.S. dollar losing approximately 90% of its purchasing power since 1971 [7] - Current political and economic conditions, including tariffs and substantial fiscal deficits, have led to fears that the U.S. government may devalue the dollar by increasing the money supply [8]