Global silver demand is forecast to reach 1.2 billion ounces in 2024, which could be the second-highest level on record. Increased industrial production is the main catalyst for growth in global demand for the white metal, with the sector set to hit a new annual high this year.
In the short term, investments in much of the precious metals complex may come under pressure as an early start to US interest rate cuts appears unlikely. Concerns about a slowing Chinese economy could also discourage institutional investment in silver. However, the US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates in the second half of the year, which will make the economic backdrop more favorable for silver investment.
Against this backdrop, the Silver Institute offers its thoughts on the silver market in 2024, noting that contributions to this analysis came from Metals Focus, a preeminent global precious metals research consultancy based in London. The company will conduct research and produce the Silver Institute’s annual report on the international silver market, World Silver Survey 2024, which will be published on April 17.
