Core Viewpoint - Silver prices surged past $75 an ounce for the first time, driven by strong industrial and investment demand, persistent supply shortfalls, its recent designation as a U.S. critical mineral, and momentum-driven buying [1] Group 1: Demand Factors - Strong industrial demand is contributing significantly to the increase in silver prices [1] - Investment demand is also a key driver behind the surge in silver prices [1] Group 2: Supply Factors - There are persistent supply shortfalls in the silver market, which are impacting prices [1] Group 3: Regulatory Impact - Silver's recent designation as a U.S. critical mineral is influencing its market dynamics positively [1] Group 4: Market Dynamics - A wave of momentum-driven buying is further propelling silver prices upward [1]