Fortuna reports financial results for the first quarter of 2024

(All amounts are expressed in US dollars, tabular amounts in millions, unless otherwise stated)

Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM) (TSX: FVI) ("Fortuna" or the "Company") today reported its financial and operating results for the first quarter of 2024.

First Quarter 2024 highlights

Financial

  • Attributable net income of $26.3 million or $0.09 per share, compared to a $92.3 million attributable net loss or $0.30 per share in Q4 2023
  • Adjusted attributable net income 1 of $26.7 million or $0.09 per share, compared to $20.6 million or $0.07 per share in Q4 2023
  • Generated $84.3 million of cash flow from operations before working capital changes, and free cash flow from ongoing operations 1 of $12.1 million, compared to $105.4 million and $66.2 million, respectively, in Q4 2023
  • The Company paid down $40.0 million of its revolving credit facility. At the close of the quarter total net debt was $83.0 million and the total net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio 1 was 0.2:1
  • Liquidity as of March 31, 2024 was $212.7 million 2 , compared to $213.1 million at the end of Q4 2023

Return to Shareholders

  • Returned $3.5 million of capital to shareholders during the quarter through the Company's normal course issuer bid ("NCIB") program
  • On April 30, 2024 Fortuna announced that the TSX had approved the renewal of the Company's NCIB program to purchase 5% of its outstanding common shares.

Operational

  • Gold equivalent 3 production of 112,543 ounces, compared to 136,154 ounces in Q4 2023
  • Gold production of 89,678 ounces, compared to 107,376 ounces in Q4 2023
  • Silver production of 1,074,571 ounces, compared to 1,354,003 ounces in Q4 2023
  • Consolidated cash costs 1 per ounce of gold equivalent sold of $879, compared to $840 in Q4 2023; adjusting for San Jose, which is mining its last year of Mineral Reserves, consolidated cash costs was $744
  • Consolidated all-in sustaining cash costs (AISC) 1 per ounce of gold equivalent sold of $1,495, compared to $1,509 in Q4 2023; adjusting for San Jose, consolidated AISC was $1,412
  • Year to date Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) of 1.13 and Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) of 3.10

Growth and Development

  • At Séguéla, mill throughput for the quarter averaged 195 tonnes per hour (t/hr), versus name plate design capacity of 154 t/hr. Mill constraints continued to be tested with throughputs of up to 220 t/hr being recorded over a seven-day period.
  • The Kingfisher prospect was identified at Séguéla which continues the identification of new prospects at the site. Refer to the News Release "Fortuna discovers new Kingfisher prospect at Séguéla Mine and provides exploration update at the Diamba Sud Gold Project" dated March 11, 2024.
  • Exploration continued at the Yessi Vein at San Jose including an intercept of 1kg silver equivalent over an estimated true width of 8.1 meters highlighting the potential for high-grade shoots. Refer to the News Release "Fortuna intersects 1kg Ag Eq over an estimated true width of 8.1m at the Yessi vein, San Jose Mine, Mexico" dated April 15, 2024.

"Our operations performed in line with expectations for the first quarter with 112,543 of gold equivalent production, $84.3 million in cash from operations before working capital changes and earnings per share of $0.09." said Jorge Ganoza, Fortuna's President and CEO. Mr. Ganoza continued "Coming off a record fourth quarter, lower production was in line with plan as Séguéla prepared the Ancien pit for mining, a maintenance shutdown was completed at Yaramoko and San Jose focused on underground preparation with site production weighted to the second half of the year." Mr. Ganoza concluded, "We also executed on our capital priorities by paying down an additional $40 million in debt and advancing exciting exploration opportunities at Séguéla and Diamba Sud while also returning capital to shareholders through our share buyback program."

First Quarter 2024 Consolidated Results

Three months ended March 31,
(Expressed in millions) 2024 2023 % Change
Sales 224.9 175.7 28 %
Mine operating income 69.9 40.4 73 %
Operating income 47.1 23.9 97 %
Attributable net income 26.3 10.9 141 %
Attributable income per share - basic 0.09 0.04 132 %
Adjusted attributable net income 1 26.7 12.2 119 %
Adjusted EBITDA 1 95.2 65.3 46 %
Net cash provided by operating activities 48.9 41.8 17 %
Free cash flow from ongoing operations 1 12.1 8.5 42 %
Cash cost ($/oz Au Eq) 1 879 916 (4 %)
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Au Eq) 1 1,495 1,514 (1 %)
Capital expenditures 2
Sustaining 25.8 27.9 (8 %)
Non-sustaining 3 8.8 1.2 633 %
Séguéla construction - 25.7 (100 %)
Brownfields 6.7 4.9 37 %
As at March 31, 2024 December 31, 2023 % Change
Cash and cash equivalents 87.7 128.1 (32 %)
Net liquidity position (excluding letters of credit) 212.7 213.1 (0 %)
Shareholder's equity attributable to Fortuna shareholders 1,260.8 1,238.4 2 %
1 Refer to Non-IFRS Financial Measures section at the end of this news release and to the MD&A accompanying the Company's financial statements filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca for a description of the calculation of these measures.
2 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis
3 Non-sustaining expenditures include greenfields exploration
Figures may not add due to rounding

First Quarter 2024 Results

Attributable Net Income and Adjusted Attributable Net Income
Net income attributable to Fortuna for the quarter was $26.3 million compared to $10.9 million in Q1 2023. After adjusting for non-cash and non-recurring items, adjusted attributable net income for the quarter was $26.7 million compared to $12.2 million in Q1 2023. The increase in net income and adjusted net income is explained mainly by increased gold sales volume and higher realized gold and silver prices. Higher gold sales volume was primarily due to contributions from Séguéla which was under construction in the comparable period. This was partially offset by lower silver production at San Jose as the mine exhausts its Mineral Reserves. The realized gold and silver prices were $2,087 and $23.43 per ounce respectively compared to $1,893 and $22.52 per ounce, respectively, for the comparable period in the prior year.

Other items impacting the adjusted net income for the quarter compared to Q1 2023 were higher G&A of $2.8 million, related to the addition of Séguéla G&A and timing of execution on certain corporate G&A items; higher foreign exchange loss of $2.5 million related mainly to our West African operations; and higher interest expense of $3.6 million, explained by $2.8 million of capitalized interest expense in the comparative period vs nil in Q1 2024 and higher accretion of right of use lease liabilities.

Depreciation and Depletion
Depreciation and depletion for the first quarter of 2024 was $50.3 million compared to $44.1 million in the comparable period. The increase in depreciation and depletion was primarily the result of higher sales volume and the inclusion of $15.8 million in depletion of the purchase price related to the acquisition of Roxgold Inc. This was partially offset by lower depreciation and depletion at San Jose as a result of an impairment charge in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Adjusted EBITDA and Cash Flow
Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $95.2 million, a margin of 42% over sales, compared to $65.3 million and margin over sales of 37%, reported in the same period in 2023. The main driver for the increase in EBITDA was the contribution from Séguéla with EBITDA margin of 62% in Q1 2024, partially offset by nil EBITDA at San Jose.

Net cash generated by operations for the quarter was $48.9 million compared to $41.8 million in Q1 2023. The increase of $7.1 million reflects higher adjusted EBITDA of $29.9 million and lower taxes paid of $7.0 million as Séguéla is expected to start remittances to the government in the second quarter. This was offset by negative changes in working capital in Q1 2024 of $35.3 million compared to negative $10.8 million in Q1 2023.

The negative change in working capital of $35.3 million consisted of the following:

  • An increase in receivables of $7.3 million driven by an increase in VAT receivables of $3.5 million at Séguéla and $5.8 million at Yaramoko
  • An increase of inventories of $9.8 million due to a $3.2 million increase in materials and supplies and a $4.9 million increase in metals inventory
  • A $17.3 million decrease in accounts payable primarily at Lindero due to $3.8 million to settle a deferred contract liability from the fourth quarter of 2023 due to timing of production, $1.8 million to settle export loans with local banks and $4.0 million related to timing of payments. Other payables movements were related to timing.

In the first quarter of 2024 capital expenditures on a cash basis were $41.4 million consisting primarily of $25.8 million in sustaining capital, including $6.7 million of brownfields exploration, and $8.8 million of non-sustaining exploration including engineering and environmental studies at Diamba Sud.

Free cash flow from ongoing operations for the quarter was $12.1 million, compared to $8.5 million in Q1 2023. The increase in free cash flow from operations was primarily the result of contributions from Séguéla which was under construction in Q1 2023 and was offset by negative working capital changes as described above.

Cash Costs and AISC
Cash cost per equivalent gold ounce was $879, compared to $915 in Q1 2023. The lower cash cost of sales per gold equivalent ounce was mainly due to the contribution of low-cost production from Séguéla and lower cost of sales per ounce of gold at Yaramoko related to higher grades. This was partially offset by higher cash costs per gold equivalent ounce at San Jose as previously capitalized costs are now expensed as the mine is in its last year of operations and higher cash cost per gold ounce at Lindero related mainly to lower planned head grades in 2024. Adjusting for San Jose, cash costs per gold equivalent ounces was $744 for the quarter.

All-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce was $1,495 for the first quarter of 2024 compared to $1,514 for the first quarter of 2023. The decrease was primarily the result of lower cash costs being offset by higher sustaining capital expenditures primarily at Lindero due to the construction of the heap leach pad expansion, increased brownfields exploration at Séguéla to advance identified prospects and higher royalties in the period due to higher production, metal prices and a change of the royalty regime in Burkina Faso. Adjusting for San Jose, all-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounces was $1,412 for the current quarter.

General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses for the quarter of $18.2 million were higher than the same period in 2023 as Séguéla transitioned to operations and costs are no longer being capitalized, and due to timing of corporate expenses. G&A is comprised of the following items:

Three months ended March 31,
(Expressed in millions) 2024 2023 % Change
Mine G&A 7.5 6.0 25 %
Corporate G&A 8.4 6.7 25 %
Share-based payments 2.2 2.1 5 %
Workers' participation 0.1 0.1 0 %
Total 18.2 14.9 22 %


Liquidity

The Company's total liquidity available as of March 31, 2024 was $212.7 million comprised of $87.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, and $125.0 million undrawn on the $250.0 million revolving credit facility (excluding letters of credit).

Lindero Mine, Argentina

Three months ended March 31,
2024 2023
Mine Production
Tonnes placed on the leach pad 1,547,323 1,478,148
Gold
Grade (g/t) 0.60 0.71
Production (oz) 23,262 25,258
Metal sold (oz) 21,719 26,812
Realized price ($/oz) 2,072 1,885
Unit Costs
Cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 1,008 891
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 1,634 1,424
Capital Expenditures ($000's) 2
Sustaining 9,807 7,745
Sustaining leases 598 598
Non-sustaining 154 187

1 Cash cost and All-in sustaining cash cost are non-IFRS financial measures; refer to non-IFRS financial measures section at the end of this news release and to the MD&A accompanying the Company's financial statements filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca for a description of the calculation of these measures.

2 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis.

Quarterly Operating and Financial Highlights

During the first quarter of 2024 total mined ore was 2.0 million tonnes at a stripping ratio of 0.54:1. A total of 1,547,323 tonnes of ore was placed on the heap leach pad at an average gold grade of 0.60 g/t, containing an estimated 29,670 ounces of gold. Gold production for Q1 2024 totaled 23,262 ounces, an 8% decrease in total ounces from the first quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower head grades. Lower mined grades are aligned with the mining sequence and the Mineral Reserves estimates.

The cash cost per ounce of gold for the quarter ending March 31, 2024, was $1,008 compared to $891, in the same period of 2023. The increase in cash cost per ounce of gold was primarily related to higher ounces sold in the comparable period due to higher production, timing of sales as 1,700 ounces of gold were still in inventory at the end of the period and additional rental equipment.

The all-in sustaining cash cost per gold ounce sold during Q1 2024 was $1,634, up from $1,424 in the first quarter of 2023. The increase in the quarter was primarily due to increased cash costs, higher capital expenditures related to the heap leach expansion and higher general and administrative costs.

As of March 31, 2024, the $51.8 million leach pad expansion project ($41.7 million capital investment in 2024) was approximately 35% complete. The construction package of the project commenced in January 2024, and is 18% complete, with contractors on site undertaking earthworks and construction of the impulsion line. The procurement and construction management ("PCM") service was awarded to Knight Piésold consultants, with the PCM project offices installed and personnel onsite as of the third quarter of 2023. Procurement is 92% complete, with critical path items onsite. The final shipments of geomembrane and geosynthetic clay liner are currently in transit, and the pump manufacturing for the new impulsion line are all on schedule. In addition to the current works, liner installation and major mechanical works are expected to commence in the second quarter of 2024. The project is scheduled to be substantially complete in the fourth quarter of 2024, with operations beginning ore placement by the end of 2024 according to the stacking plan for the year.

Yaramoko Mine, Burkina Faso

Three months ended March 31,
2024 2023
Mine Production
Tonnes milled 107,719 139,650
Gold
Grade (g/t) 8.79 5.94
Recovery (%) 98 97
Production (oz) 27,177 26,437
Metal sold (oz) 27,171 29,472
Realized price ($/oz) 2,095 1,899
Unit Costs
Cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 752 819
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 1,373 1,509
Capital Expenditures ($000's) 2
Sustaining 9,573 13,549
Sustaining leases 1,050 1,359
Brownfields 1,410 1,191

1 Cash cost and All-in sustaining cash cost are non-IFRS financial measures; refer to non-IFRS financial measures section at the end of this news release and to the MD&A accompanying the Company's financial statements filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca for a description of the calculation of these measures.
2 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis.

In the first quarter of 2024, Yaramoko mined 123,877 tonnes of ore at an average grade of 8.30 g/t Au containing an estimated 33,053 ounces of gold. Mill production was 27,177 ounces of gold with an average gold head grade of 8.79 g/t. This represents a 3% and 48% increase when compared to the same period in 2023. A planned mill maintenance shutdown reduced mill throughput in the first quarter of 2024.

The cash cost per ounce of gold sold for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, was $752, compared to $819 in the same period in 2023. The decrease for the quarter is mainly attributed to higher head grades, which demand lower direct costs per ounce. This was partially offset by higher royalties due to higher metal prices and a change in the royalty regime in Burkina Faso which increased the royalty rate from 5% to 7% when the gold price is over $2,000 per ounce.

The all-in sustaining cash cost per gold ounce sold was $1,373 for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, compared to $1,509 in the same period of 2023. The change in the quarter was primarily due to the decreased cash cost described above, and reduced capital expenditures.

Drilling focused on infill grade control and exploring for extensions beyond the mineralized resource envelope in the deeper eastern and western portions of the 55 Zone. Stoping operations at the QVP orebody accelerated with batch mill tests confirming grade expectations.

In early April, the Government of Ghana issued a directive which stopped the export of electricity to its neighbouring countries, including Burkina Faso. As a consequence, Yaramoko has supplemented electricity used in its operations from the national grid with self-generated backup power. Production at Yaramoko has not been affected; however, Management is currently monitoring the increase in costs of the alternative energy supplies.

Séguéla Mine, Côte d'Ivoire

Three months ended March 31,
2024 2023
Mine Production
Tonnes milled 394,837 -
Average tonnes crushed per day 4,339 -
Gold
Grade (g/t) 2.79 -
Recovery (%) 94 -
Production (oz) 34,556 -
Metal sold (oz) 34,450 -
Realized price ($/oz) 2,095 -
Unit Costs
Cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 459 -
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Au) 1 948 -
Capital Expenditures ($000's) 2
Sustaining 3,027 -
Sustaining leases 2,265 -
Non-sustaining 1,035 -
Brownfields 4,896 -
1 Cash cost and All-in sustaining cash cost are non-IFRS financial measures. Refer to Non-IFRS Financial Measures.
2 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis

In the first quarter of 2024, mined material totaled 420,538 tonnes of ore, averaging 2.23 g/t Au, and containing an estimated 30,192 ounces of gold from the Antenna and Ancien pits. Movement of waste during the quarter totaled 2,538,067 tonnes, for a strip ratio of 6:1.

Production was mainly focused on the Antenna pit which produced 401,109 tonnes of ore, the remainder being mined at the Ancien pit. A total of 700,229 tonnes of waste was also mined at Ancien. Waste mining commenced at Koula during the quarter with 18,063 tonnes of waste being mined.

Séguéla processed 394,837 tonnes in the quarter, producing 34,556 ounces of gold, at an average head grade of 2.79 g/t Au.

Throughput for the quarter averaged 195 tonnes per hour (t/hr), versus name plate design capacity of 154 t/hr. Mill constraints continued to be tested with throughputs of up to 220 t/hr being recorded over a seven-day period. This was achieved with a 60/20/20 blend of fresh, transitional and oxide ore respectively. The Life of Mine (LOM) blend consists of 85% fresh rock. A relining of the mill is planned in April, and further tests will then be conducted with a blend more representative of the LOM blend. Mine design and scheduling continue with the focus being on the requirements to sustainably meet the expected higher throughput rates.

Cash cost per gold ounce sold was $459, and all-in sustaining cash cost per gold ounce sold was $948 for Q1 2024. Both were within plan and guidance.

Côte d'Ivoire has been experiencing a shortage of electricity to the national grid since mid-April, due to failures at two private power generation plants, which supply approximately 25% of the electricity to the national grid. This has led to power cuts in neighborhoods, load shedding during peak hours, and electricity rationing to industries. Power output from one of the plants (CIPREL)has now been restored; however, restoration of supply from the second plant (AZITO) is not expected until July. The Séguéla mine continues to receive energy on a daily basis from the grid with interruptions. The operation has emergency backup power generation capacity to sustain critical processes only. Management is implementing various short-and medium-term mitigating measures which include operating the mill at 25% higher throughput, adjusting mine plans to prioritize higher grade Mineral Reserves, and sourcing a power backup solution for the entire operation, expected to be available on-site in July. Production in April has been only marginally affected. Management has not modified annual guidance for the Séguéla mine at this time but continues to monitor the situation closely.

San Jose Mine, Mexico

Three months ended March 31,
2024 2023
Mine Production
Tonnes milled 181,103 246,736
Average tonnes milled per day 2,182 2,869
Silver
Grade (g/t) 147 181
Recovery (%) 89 91
Production (oz) 759,111 1,303,312
Metal sold (oz) 746,607 1,328,333
Realized price ($/oz) 23.47 22.58
Gold
Grade (g/t) 0.90 1.15
Recovery (%) 87 90
Production (oz) 4,533 8,231
Metal sold (oz) 4,460 8,355
Realized price ($/oz) 2,074 1,900
Unit Costs
Cash cost ($/oz Ag Eq) 1,2 21.98 11.35
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Ag Eq) 1,2 24.24 15.51
Capital Expenditures ($000's) 3
Sustaining 3,772
Sustaining leases 261 162
Non-sustaining 3,477 269
Brownfields 1,088

1 Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent and All-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent are calculated using realized metal prices for each period respectively.
2 Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent, and all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent are non-IFRS financial measures, refer to non-IFRS financial measures section at the end of this news release and to the MD&A accompanying the Company's financial statements filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca for a description of the calculation of these measures.
3 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis

In the first quarter of 2024, San Jose produced 759,111 ounces of silver and 4,533 ounces of gold, 42% and 45% decreases respectively, at average head grades for silver and gold of 147 g/t and 0.90 g/t, 19% and 22% decreases respectively, when compared to the same period in 2023. The decrease in silver and gold production, when compared to the first quarter of 2023, is explained by lower tonnes extracted and lower grades, which is consistent with the annual plan and guidance. During the first quarter, the processing plant milled 181,103 tonnes at an average of 2,182 tonnes per day, in line with the plan for the period.

The cash cost per silver equivalent ounce for the three months ending March 31, 2024, was $21.98, an increase from $11.42 in the same period of 2023. The San Jose Mine has less operational flexibility in 2024 compared to 2023, due to the reduced and more dispersed Mineral Reserves associated with the Trinidad deposit, which also increase mine costs. Production areas contain lower head grades and a higher presence of ferrous oxides in the upper levels, which impacted recoveries by approximately 2% in the quarter. Ore processed decreased by 27% due to lower tonnes mined.

The all-in sustaining cash cost per payable silver equivalent ounce for the three months ended March 31, 2024, increased by 56% to $24.24. This compares to $15.51 per ounce for the same period in 2023. These increases were mainly driven by higher cash costs and lower production, slightly mitigated by lower capital expenditure. The operation is experiencing further cost pressures driven by the continued appreciation of the Mexican peso. The Company conducts regular assessments and trade-offs between maintaining operations and opting for a care and maintenance option.

Sustaining capital expenditure has decreased as we near the anticipated closure of the mine. Drilling in 2024 was higher due to the drilling campaign at the Yessi vein, which was discovered in the third quarter of 2023. Exploration at the Yessi vein is ongoing.

Caylloma Mine, Peru

Three months ended March 31,
2024 2023
Mine Production
Tonnes milled 137,096 125,995
Average tonnes milled per day 1,540 1,448
Silver
Grade (g/t) 87 85
Recovery (%) 82 82
Production (oz) 315,460 283,066
Metal sold (oz) 325,483 263,570
Realized price ($/oz) 23.34 22.24
Gold
Grade (g/t) 0.12 0.15
Recovery (%) 29 27
Production (oz) 150 166
Metal sold (oz) 63 22
Realized price ($/oz) 2,024 1,895
Lead
Grade (%) 3.48 3.74
Recovery (%) 91 92
Production (000's lbs) 9,531 9,509
Metal sold (000's lbs) 9,825 8,782
Realized price ($/lb) 0.95 1.02
Zinc
Grade (%) 4.46 5.21
Recovery (%) 90 90
Production (000's lbs) 12,183 13,051
Metal sold (000's lbs) 12,466 13,815
Realized price ($/lb) 1.11 1.45
Unit Costs
Cash cost ($/oz Ag Eq) 1,2 11.61 12.74
All-in sustaining cash cost ($/oz Ag Eq) 1,2 17.18 16.88
Capital Expenditures ($000's) 3
Sustaining 3,377 2,810
Sustaining leases 906 856
Brownfields 358 204

1 Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent and All-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent are calculated using realized metal prices for each period respectively.
2 Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent, and all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent are non-IFRS financial measures, refer to non-IFRS financial measures section at the end of this news release and to the MD&A accompanying the Company's financial statements filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca for a description of the calculation of these measures.
3 Capital expenditures are presented on a cash basis.

In the first quarter, the Caylloma Mine produced 315,460 ounces of silver, 11% higher compared to the first quarter 2023, at an average head grade of 87 g/t Ag.

Lead and zinc production for the quarter was 9.5 million pounds of lead, and 12.2 million pounds of zinc. Lead production was in line and zinc production decreased by 7% compared to the same period in 2023. Head grades averaged 3.48%, and 4.46%, a 7% and 14% decrease, respectively, when compared to the first quarter of 2023.

Lower metal production compared to the previous quarter was due to lower grades, which are in line with the Mineral Reserves estimates and production guidance for the year.

The cash cost per silver equivalent ounces for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was $11.61, a 12% decrease compared to the comparable period in 2023. This was primarily due to lower treatment and refining charges.

The all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of payable silver equivalent for the three months ended March 31, 2024, increased 2% to $17.18, compared to $16.88 for the same period in 2023. The decrease in cash costs per ounce was offset by higher capital expenditure, as well as the impact of increasing silver prices on the calculation of silver equivalent ounces resulting in lower equivalent silver ounces sold.

Underground development for the quarter was mainly focused on mine levels 15, 16, 17, and 18. The increase in Brownfields expenditures is primarily attributable to greater footage, additional diamond drilling, and cost inflation.

Qualified Person

Eric Chapman, Senior Vice President of Technical Services, is a Professional Geoscientist of the Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (Registration Number 36328), and is the Company's Qualified Person (as defined by National Instrument 43-101). Mr. Chapman has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release and has verified the underlying data.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

The Company has disclosed certain financial measures and ratios in this news release which are not defined under the International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and are not disclosed in the Company's financial statements, including but not limited to: cash cost per ounce of gold sold; all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of gold sold; all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent sold; all-in cash cost per ounce of gold sold; production cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent; cash cost per payable ounce of silver equivalent sold; all-in sustaining cash cost per payable ounce of silver equivalent sold; all-in cash cost per payable ounce of silver equivalent sold; free cash flow from ongoing operations; adjusted net income; adjusted attributable net income; adjusted EBITDA and working capital.

These non-IFRS financial measures and non-IFRS ratios are widely reported in the mining industry as benchmarks for performance and are used by management to monitor and evaluate the Company's operating performance and ability to generate cash. The Company believes that, in addition to financial measures and ratios prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use these non-IFRS financial measures and ratios to evaluate the Company's performance. However, the measures do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other companies. Accordingly, non-IFRS financial measures and non-IFRS ratios should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures and ratios of the Company's performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. The Company has calculated these measures consistently for all periods presented.

To facilitate a better understanding of these measures and ratios as calculated by the Company, descriptions are provided below. In addition see "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2024 ("Q1 2024 MDA"), which section is incorporated by reference in this news release, for additional information regarding each non-IFRS financial measure and non-IFRS ratio disclosed in this news release, including an explanation of their composition; an explanation of how such measures and ratios provide useful information to an investor; and the additional purposes, if any, for which management of the Company uses such measures and ratio. The Q1 2024 MD&A may be accessed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the Company's profile.

Except as otherwise described in the Q1 2024 MD&A, the Company has calculated these measures consistently for all periods presented.

Reconciliation of Debt to total net debt and net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio for March 31, 2024

(Expressed in millions except Total net debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio) As at March 31, 2024
Credit facility $ 125.0
Convertible debenture 45.7
Debt 170.7
Less: Cash and Cash Equivalents (87.7 )
Total net debt 1 $ 83.0
Adjusted EBITDA (last four quarters) $ 335.1
Total net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio 0.2:1
1 Excluding letters of credit

Reconciliation of net income to adjusted attributable net income for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

Three months ended March 31,
(Expressed in millions) 2024 2023
Net income attributable to shareholders 26.3 10.9
Adjustments, net of tax:
Community support provision and accruals 1 (0.2 ) -
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivatives - 1.0
Accretion on right of use assets 0.9 0.6
Other non-cash/non-recurring items (0.3 ) (0.3 )
Adjusted attributable net income 26.7 12.2
1 Amounts are recorded in Cost of sales

Reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA for the three ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

Three months ended March 31,
Consolidated (in millions of US dollars) 2024 2023
Net income 29.1 11.9
Adjustments:
Community support provision and accruals (0.3 ) (0.1 )
Net finance items 6.2 2.6
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization 50.3 44.4
Income taxes 14.5 7.9
Other non-cash/non-recurring items (4.6 ) (1.4 )
Adjusted EBITDA 95.2 65.3

Figures may not add due to rounding

Reconciliation of net cash from operating activities to free cash flow from ongoing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

In 2022, the Company changed the method for calculating free cash flow from ongoing operations. The calculation now uses taxes paid as opposed to the previous method which used current income taxes. While this may create larger quarter over quarter fluctuations due to the timing of income tax payments, management believes the revised method is a better representation of the free cash flow generated by the Company's ongoing operations.

Three months ended March 31,
(Expressed in millions) 2024 2023
Net cash provided by operating activities 48.9 41.8
Additions to mineral properties, plant and equipment (32.4 ) (30.4 )
Gain on blue chip swap investments 2.6 -
Right of use payments (4.9 ) (3.0 )
Other adjustments (2.1 ) 0.1
Free cash flow from ongoing operations 12.1 8.5

Figures may not add due to rounding

Reconciliation of cost of sales to cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent sold for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

Cash Cost Per Gold Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2024 Lindero Yaramoko Séguéla San Jose Caylloma GEO Cash Costs
Cost of sales 34,049 34,951 45,209 23,724 17,105 155,040
Depletion, depreciation, and amortization (11,580 ) (10,215 ) (23,916 ) (391 ) (3,824 ) (49,926 )
Royalties and taxes (253 ) (4,293 ) (5,472 ) (704 ) (354 ) (11,076 )
By-product credits (424 ) (424 )
Other 6 (331 ) (325 )
Treatment and refining charges 973 1,231 2,204
Cash cost applicable per gold equivalent ounce sold 21,792 20,443 15,821 23,608 13,827 95,491
Ounces of gold equivalent sold 21,628 27,171 34,450 12,090 13,330 108,670
Cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent sold ($/oz) 1,008 752 459 1,953 1,037 879
Gold equivalent was calculated using the realized prices for gold of $2,087/oz Au, $23.4/oz Ag, $2,084/t Pb, and $2,450/t Zn for Q1 2024.
Figures may not add due to rounding


Cash Cost Per Gold Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2023 Lindero Yaramoko Séguéla San Jose Caylloma GEO Cash Costs
Cost of sales 41,725 44,863 32,523 16,108 135,219
Depletion, depreciation, and amortization (13,192 ) (17,368 ) (9,912 ) (3,483 ) (43,955 )
Royalties and taxes (3,926 ) (3,362 ) (1,257 ) (166 ) (8,711 )
By-product credits (799 ) (799 )
Other 15 (17 ) (471 ) (473 )
Treatment and refining charges 724 5,506 6,230
Cash cost applicable per gold equivalent ounce sold 23,823 24,133 22,061 17,494 87,511
Ounces of gold equivalent sold 26,763 29,472 23,127 16,179 95,541
Cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent sold ($/oz) 891 819 954 1,081 916
Gold equivalent was calculated using the realized prices for gold of $1,893/oz Au, $22.5/oz Ag, $2,256/t Pb, and $3,197/t Zn for Q1 2023.
Figures may not add due to rounding

Reconciliation of cost of sales to all-in sustaining cash cost per ounce of gold equivalent sold for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

AISC Per Gold Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2024 Lindero Yaramoko Séguéla San Jose Caylloma Corporate GEO AISC
Cash cost applicable per gold equivalent ounce sold 21,792 20,443 15,821 23,608 13,827 95,491
Royalties and taxes 253 4,293 5,472 704 354 11,076
Worker's participation 417 417
General and administration 2,879 550 1,168 1,458 1,219 10,649 17,923
Total cash costs 24,924 25,286 22,461 25,770 15,817 10,649 124,907
Sustaining capital 1 10,405 12,033 10,188 261 4,641 37,528
All-in sustaining costs 35,329 37,319 32,649 26,031 20,458 10,649 162,435
Gold equivalent ounces sold 21,628 27,171 34,450 12,090 13,330 108,670
All-in sustaining costs per ounce 1,634 1,373 948 2,153 1,535 1,495
Gold equivalent was calculated using the realized prices for gold of $2,087/oz Au, $23.4/oz Ag, $2,084/t Pb, and $2,450/t Zn for Q1 2024.
Figures may not add due to rounding
1 Presented on a cash basis


AISC Per Gold Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2023 Lindero Yaramoko Séguéla San Jose Caylloma Corporate GEO AISC
Cash cost applicable per gold equivalent ounce sold 23,823 24,133 22,061 17,494 87,511
Royalties and taxes 3,926 3,362 1,257 166 8,711
Worker's participation 21 517 538
General and administration 1,992 889 1,802 1,144 8,681 14,508
Total cash costs 29,741 28,384 25,141 19,321 8,681 111,268
Sustaining capital 3 8,343 16,099 5,022 3,870 33,334
All-in sustaining costs 38,084 44,483 30,163 23,191 8,681 144,602
Gold equivalent ounces sold 26,763 29,472 23,127 16,179 95,541
All-in sustaining costs per ounce 1,424 1,509 1,304 1,433 1,514
Gold equivalent was calculated using the realized prices for gold of $1,893/oz Au, $22.5/oz Ag, $2,256/t Pb, and $3,197/t Zn for Q1 2023.
Figures may not add due to rounding
1 Presented on a cash basis

Reconciliation of cost of sales to cash cost per payable ounce of silver equivalent sold for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

Cash Cost Per Silver Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2024 San Jose Caylloma SEO Cash Costs
Cost of sales 23,724 17,105 40,829
Depletion, depreciation, and amortization (391 ) (3,824 ) (4,215 )
Royalties and taxes (704 ) (354 ) (1,058 )
Other 6 (331 ) (325 )
Treatment and refining charges 973 1,231 2,204
Cash cost applicable per silver equivalent sold 23,608 13,827 37,435
Ounces of silver equivalent sold 1 1,073,948 1,190,990 2,264,938
Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent sold ($/oz) 21.98 11.61 16.53
1 Silver equivalent sold for Q1 2024 for San Jose is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 88.4:1. Silver equivalent sold for Q1 2024 for Caylloma is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 86.8:1, silver to lead ratio of 1:24.7 pounds, and silver to zinc ratio of 1:21.0 pounds.
2 Silver equivalent is calculated using the realized prices for gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Refer to Financial Results - Sales and Realized Prices
Figures may not add due to rounding


Cash Cost Per Silver Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2023 San Jose Caylloma SEO Cash Costs
Cost of sales 32,523 16,108 48,631
Depletion, depreciation, and amortization (9,912 ) (3,483 ) (13,395 )
Royalties and taxes (1,257 ) (166 ) (1,423 )
Other (17 ) (471 ) (488 )
Treatment and refining charges 724 5,506 6,230
Cash cost applicable per silver equivalent sold 22,061 17,494 39,555
Ounces of silver equivalent sold 1 1,944,265 1,373,699 3,317,964
Cash cost per ounce of silver equivalent sold ($/oz) 11.35 12.74 11.92
1 Silver equivalent sold for San Jose for Q1 2023 is 81.2:1.Silver equivalent sold for Caylloma for Q1 2023 is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 0.0:1, silver to lead ratio of 1:22.3 pounds, and silver to zinc ratio 1:15.7.
2 Silver equivalent is calculated using the realized prices for gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Refer to Financial Results - Sales and Realized Prices
Figures have been restated to remove Right of Use
Figures may not add due to rounding

Reconciliation of all-in sustaining cash cost and all-in cash cost per payable ounce of silver equivalent sold for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

AISC Per Silver Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2024 San Jose Caylloma SEO AISC
Cash cost applicable per silver equivalent ounce sold 23,608 13,827 37,435
Royalties and taxes 704 354 1,058
Worker's participation 417 417
General and administration 1,458 1,219 2,677
Total cash costs 25,770 15,817 41,587
Sustaining capital 3 261 4,641 4,902
All-in sustaining costs 26,031 20,458 46,489
Silver equivalent ounces sold 1 1,073,948 1,190,990 2,264,938
All-in sustaining costs per ounce 2 24.24 17.18 20.53
1 Silver equivalent sold for Q1 2024 for San Jose is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 88.4:1. Silver equivalent sold for Q1 2024 for Caylloma is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 86.8:1, silver to lead ratio of 1:24.7 pounds, and silver to zinc ratio of 1:21.0 pounds.
2 Silver equivalent is calculated using the realized prices for gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Refer to Financial Results - Sales and Realized Prices
3 Presented on a cash basis


AISC Per Silver Equivalent Ounce Sold - Q1 2023 San Jose Caylloma SEO AISC
Cash cost applicable per silver equivalent ounce sold 22,061 17,494 39,555
Royalties and taxes 1,257 166 1,423
Worker's participation 21 517 538
General and administration 1,802 1,144 2,946
Total cash costs 25,141 19,321 44,462
Sustaining capital 3 5,022 3,870 8,892
All-in sustaining costs 30,163 23,191 53,354
Silver equivalent ounces sold 1 1,944,265 1,373,699 3,317,964
All-in sustaining costs per ounce 2 15.51 16.88 16.08
1 Silver equivalent sold for San Jose for Q1 2023 is 81.2:1.Silver equivalent sold for Caylloma for Q1 2023 is calculated using a silver to gold ratio of 0.0:1, silver to lead ratio of 1:22.3 pounds, and silver to zinc ratio 1:15.7.
2 Silver equivalent is calculated using the realized prices for gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Refer to Financial Results - Sales and Realized Prices
3 Presented on a cash basis

Additional information regarding the Company's financial results and activities underway are available in the Company's unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 and accompanying Q1 2024 MD&A, which are available for download on the Company's website, www.fortunasilver.com , on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar .

Conference Call and Webcast

A conference call to discuss the financial and operational results will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. Pacific time | 12:00 p.m. Eastern time. Hosting the call will be Jorge A. Ganoza, President and CEO, Luis D. Ganoza, Chief Financial Officer, Cesar Velasco, Chief Operating Officer - Latin America, and David Whittle, Chief Operating Officer - West Africa.

Shareholders, analysts, media and interested investors are invited to listen to the live conference call by logging onto the webcast at: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/1696/50484 or over the phone by dialing in just prior to the starting time.

Conference call details:

Date : Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Time : 9:00 a.m. Pacific time | 12:00 p.m. Eastern time

Dial in number (Toll Free) : +1.888.506.0062
Dial in number (International) : +1.973.528.0011
Access code : 586882

Replay number (Toll Free) : +1.877.481.4010
Replay number (International) : +1.919.882.2331
Replay passcode : 50484

Playback of the earnings call will be available until Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Playback of the webcast will be available until Thursday, May 8, 2025. In addition, a transcript of the call will be archived on the Company's website .

About Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.

Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. is a Canadian precious metals mining company with five operating mines in Argentina, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mexico, and Peru. Sustainability is integral to all our operations and relationships. We produce gold and silver and generate shared value over the long-term for our stakeholders through efficient production, environmental protection, and social responsibility. For more information, please visit our website .

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Jorge A. Ganoza
President, CEO, and Director
Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.

Investor Relations:

Carlos Baca | info@fortunasilver.com | www.fortunasilver.com | Twitter | LinkedIn | YouTube

Forward-looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, "Forward-looking Statements"). All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are Forward-looking Statements and are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the Forward-looking Statements. The Forward-looking Statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements about the Company's plans for its mines and mineral properties; the Company's anticipated financial and operational performance in 2024; estimated production and costs of production for 2024, including grade and volume of metal produced and sales, revenues and cashflows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining), and operating costs, including projected production cash costs and all-in sustaining costs; the ability of the Company to mitigate the inflationary pressures on supplies used in its operations; estimated capital expenditures and estimated exploration spending in 2024, including amounts for exploration activities at its properties; statements regarding the Company's liquidity, access to capital; the impact of high inflation on the costs of production and the supply chain; the Company's expectation regarding the timing for the completion of the leach pad expansion project at the Lindero Mine; ; the Company's plans with respect to the San Jose Mine and statements relating to exploration at the Yessi Vein; the Company's plans regarding the mill at the   Séguéla   Mine; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlook; the merit of the Company's mines and mineral properties; mineral resource and reserve estimates, metal recovery rates, concentrate grade and quality; changes in tax rates and tax laws, requirements for permits, anticipated approvals and other matters. Often, but not always, these Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of words such as "estimated", "expected", "anticipated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "planned", "reflecting", "will", "containing", "remaining", "to be", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.

Forward-looking Statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-looking Statements. Such uncertainties and factors include, among others, changes in general economic conditions and financial markets;   uncertainty relating to new mining operations such as the Séguéla Mine, including the possibility that actual capital and operating costs and economic returns will differ significantly from those estimated for such projects prior to production;   risks associated with war or other geo-political hostilities, such as the Ukrainian – Russian and the Israel – Hamas conflicts, any of which could continue to cause a disruption in global economic activity; fluctuation in currencies and foreign exchange rates; increases in the rate of inflation; the imposition or any extension of capital controls in countries in which the Company operates; any changes in tax laws in Argentina and the other countries in which we operate; changes in the prices of key supplies; technological and operational hazards in Fortuna's mining and mine development activities; risks related to water and power availability; risks inherent in mineral exploration; uncertainties inherent in the estimation of mineral reserves, mineral resources, and metal recoveries; changes to current estimates of mineral reserves and resources; changes to production and cost estimates; the possibility that the appeal in respect of the ruling in favor of Compania Minera Cuzcatlan S.A. de C.V. reinstating the environmental impact authorization at the San Jose Mine (the "EIA") will be successful; changes in the position of regulatory authorities with respect to the granting of approvals or permits; governmental and other approvals; changes in government, political unrest or instability in countries where Fortuna is active; labor relations issues; as well as those factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in Forward-looking Statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

Forward-looking Statements contained herein are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management, including but not limited to the accuracy of the Company's current mineral resource and reserve estimates; that the Company's activities will be conducted in accordance with the Company's public statements and stated goals; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company, its properties or changes to production estimates (which assume accuracy of projected ore grade, mining rates, recovery timing, and recovery rate estimates and may be impacted by unscheduled maintenance, labor and contractor availability and other operating or technical difficulties); geo-political uncertainties that may affect the Company's production, workforce, business, operations and financial condition; the expected trends in mineral prices and currency exchange rates; that the Company will be successful in mitigating the impact of inflation on its business and operations; that the appeal filed in the Mexican Collegiate Court challenging the reinstatement of the EIA will be unsuccessful; that all required approvals and permits will be obtained for the Company's business and operations on acceptable terms; that there will be no significant disruptions affecting the Company's operations, the ability to meet current and future obligations and such other assumptions as set out herein. Forward-looking Statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any Forward-looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that these Forward-looking Statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on Forward-looking Statements.

Cautionary Note to United States Investors Concerning Estimates of Reserves and Resources

Reserve and resource estimates included in this news release have been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for public disclosure by a Canadian company of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Unless otherwise indicated, all mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates contained in the technical disclosure have been prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and mineral reserve and resource information included in this news release may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies.

A PDF accompanying this announcement is available at http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/9fe9330b-a45b-4f5c-950b-04e8a17905a6


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Thank you for requesting our exclusive Investor Report!

This forward-thinking document will arm you with the insights needed to make well-informed decisions for 2025 and beyond.

A Sneak Peek At What The Insiders Are Saying

"I'm looking for US$40 (per ounce) or so in 2025. It's really hard to predict because technically there's no resistance above US$35 or so”
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At the same time, not a single word of the content we choose for you is paid for by any company or investment advisor: We choose our content based solely on its informational and educational value to you, the investor.

So if you are looking for a way to diversify your portfolio amidst political and financial instability, this is the place to start. Right now.

Silver Price Forecast: Top Trends for Silver in 2025

The silver price reached highs not seen since 2012 this past year, supported by an ongoing deficit and increasing interest from investors as geopolitical concerns prompted safe-haven buying.

The white metal reached its highest point for the year in October, breaking through US$34 per ounce on the back of a shifting post-pandemic landscape and geopolitical tensions. However, Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election just a few weeks later buoyed bond yields and the US dollar while weighing on silver and gold.

What will 2025 hold for silver? As the new year approaches, investors are closely watching how Trump's policies and actions could impact the precious metal, along with supply and demand trends in the space.

Here's what experts see coming for silver in 2025.

How will Trump's presidency impact silver?

As Trump's inauguration approaches, speculation is rife about how he could affect the resource industry.

The president-elect ran on a policy of “drill, baby, drill," and while his focus was largely on oil and gas companies, mining sector participants have taken it as a positive sign for exploration and development.

Trump's promise to reduce permitting timelines for anyone making an investment of US$1 billion or more in the US has excited sector members, and could end up being a boon to silver companies in the country.

However, part of the help Trump has promised to mining companies comes from reneging on environmental commitments, including the Paris Agreement. This could end up weighing on silver.

Current President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act includes tax credits and deductions for solar projects, and there's some concern that the incoming administration and the new Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could impose reversals or have the entire act gutted, hurting the solar market.

However, Peter Krauth, author of "The Great Silver Bull" and editor of the Silver Stock Investor, told the Investing News Network (INN) that Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Musk could end up keeping solar safe.

“Tesla bought SolarCity, which became Tesla Energy. They are an important provider of solar panels. Again, Musk’s new role heading DOGE and obvious close connection to Trump just might help mitigate risks to Tesla and its solar panel/power storage business. If that happens, in whatever form it may take, it could shelter solar panel production and sales in the US to a considerable degree,” Krauth explained via email.

He also noted that Trump's presidency isn't without risks and that much uncertainty still remains.

Mind Money CEO Julia Khandoshko also isn't worried about solar demand in the US.

“Rolling back ESG policies and returning to carbon-based technologies could slow the green energy transition in the US. However, Europe and China, the main drivers of the green transition, remain committed to clean energy, which increases silver demand. Thus, global trends will continue to support silver use in renewable energy technologies,” she told INN.

Silver deficit expected to continue

Industrial segments have been critical for silver demand in recent years.

As of November, the Silver Institute was forecasting total industrial demand of 702 million ounces of silver for 2024, an increase of 7 percent over the 655 million ounces recorded in 2023.

The institute attributes much of this increase to energy transition sectors, highlighting photovoltaics in particular.

However, these gains are coming alongside flat mine production, which is expected to grow only 1 percent to 837 million ounces during 2024. Once factored in, secondary supply from recycling pushes total supply of silver to 1.03 billion ounces for the year, a considerable gap from the 1.21 billion ounces of total demand.

Both Krauth and Khandoshko think the gap between silver supply and demand will continue.

Krauth suggested that companies have been dipping into aboveground inventories to narrow the gap, which has helped to keep the price of silver from exploding over the past year. "That supply is quickly drying up, so I expect to see renewed upward price pressure since silver miners are unable to grow output," he told INN.

Khandoshko expressed a similar sentiment, saying demand is likely to keep outpacing supply.

However, she also sees geopolitics and a global macroeconomic situation that could constrain both demand and supply growth in 2025. For example, economic difficulties in Europe and China could slow energy transition demand.

"The problem is that silver production is mainly concentrated in geopolitically challenging areas, such as Russia and Kazakhstan, where securing funding for supply expansion is quite difficult" — Julia Khandoshko, Mind Money

When it comes to supply, Khandoshko told INN that she sees a different scenario.

“The problem is that silver production is mainly concentrated in geopolitically challenging areas, such as Russia and Kazakhstan, where securing funding for supply expansion is quite difficult," she explained.

"These factors limit silver’s growth potential compared to gold, which in turn benefits from its role as a safe-haven asset during times of economic uncertainty."

Silver M&A set to heat up in 2025

As silver supply becomes increasingly stressed, experts are eyeing projects that are ramping up.

Krauth highlighted Aya Gold and Silver’s (TSX:AYA:OTCQX:AYASF) Zgounder mine expansion. Its first pour was at the end of November, and it is expected to ramp up to full annual output of 8 million ounces in 2025.

Endeavour Silver’s (TSX:EDR,NYSE:EXK) Terronera mine is also nearing completion. Once complete, the operation is expected to produce 15.5 million silver equivalent ounces per year.

For its part, Skeena Resources (TSX:SKE,NYSE:SKE) is working to develop its Eskay Creek project. It is set to come online in 2027, and is expected to bring 9.5 million ounces of silver per year to market in its first five years.

Krauth said a rising silver price is likely good news for mergers and acquisitions in 2025.

“Higher prices, since they translate into higher share prices, meaning acquirers can use their more valuable shares as a currency to acquire others … I think 2024 will bring deals between mid-tiers and between juniors," he said.

Krauth added, "The truth is that many mid-tier producers have not been spending on exploration. Something has to give, so I think we’ll see this space heat up."

Investor takeaway

Khandoshko and Krauth have similar silver outlooks for 2025, suggesting a possible pullback.

“Due to supply shortages and increasing demand in the coming months, silver is expected to reach US$35. After this, a slight pullback to US$30 would be possible,” Khandoshko said.

However, after that happens she projects another rise, with silver potentially passing US$50.

Krauth was looking for silver to reach US$35 in 2024, which happened in Q4. Looking forward to 2025, he thinks the white metal will revisit that level in the first quarter, with US$40 or more possible later in the year.

However, he suggested that investors should be cautious of wider economic trends affecting silver.

“There is a serious risk of significant correction in the broader markets and of a recession. A broad market selloff could bleed into silver stocks, even if only temporarily,” Krauth said.

In the case of a recession, a lack of industrial demand could create headwinds for silver. Still, Krauth thinks that could be tempered by government stimulus efforts for green energy and infrastructure.

Overall, 2025 could be a significant year for silver investors. However, geopolitical and economic instability may provide headwinds across the resource sector and could stymie silver's upward momentum.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Editorial Disclosure: Prismo Metals is a client of the Investing News Network. This article is not paid-for content.

The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.

Silver Price Update: Q1 2025 in Review

Gold may be grabbing headlines with record-breaking highs in 2025, but silver is quietly making its own impressive climb, rising 17 percent since the start of the year.

Long supported by industrial demand, the silver market is also benefiting from its reputation as a safe-haven asset. However, mounting economic uncertainty has rattled investors in recent months.

While there are many driving forces behind this uncertainty, the ongoing tariff threats from US President Donald Trump and his administration have spooked equity markets worldwide.

What happened to the silver price in Q1?

After reaching a year-to-date high of US$34.72 per ounce in October 2024, the price of silver spent the rest of the year in decline, bottoming out at US$28.94 on December 30.

A momentum shift at the start of the year caused it to rise. Opening at US$29.53 on January 2, silver quickly broke through the US$30 barrier on January 7, eventually reaching US$31.28 by January 31.

Silver price, January 2 to April 4, 2025

Silver price, January 2 to April 4, 2025

Chart via Trading Economics.

Silver's gains continued through much of February, with the white metal climbing to US$32.94 on February 20 before retreating to US$31.13 on February 28. Silver rose again in March, surpassing the US$32 mark on March 5 and closing above US$32 on March 12. It peaked at its quarterly high of US$34.43 on March 27.

Heading into April, silver slumped back to US$33.67 on the first day of the month; it then declined sharply to below US$30 following Trump's tariff announcements on April 2.

Tariff fears lift silver, but industrial demand uncertainty looms

Precious metals, including silver, have benefited from the volatility created by the Trump administration’s constant tariff threats since the beginning of the year. These threats have caused chaos throughout global equity and financial markets, prompting more investors to seek safe-haven assets to stabilize their portfolios.

However, there are concerns that the threat of tariffs could weaken industrial demand, which could cool price gains in the silver market. In an email to the Investing News Network (INN), Peter Krauth, editor of the Silver Stock Investor and author of "The Great Silver Bull," said it's too soon to tell how tariffs may affect silver.

“We don’t really have any indication yet that industrial demand has weakened. There is, of course, a lot of concern regarding industrial demand, as tariffs could cause demand destruction as costs go up,” he said.

Krauth noted that for solar panels there is an argument that tariffs could positively affect industrial demand if countries have a greater desire for self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on energy imports.

He referenced research by Heraeus Precious Metals about a possible slowdown in demand from China, which accounts for 80 percent of solar panel capacity. However, any slowdown would coincide with a transition from older PERC technology to newer TOPCon cells, which require significantly more silver inputs.

“This, along with the gradual replacement of older PERC solar panels with TOPCon panels, should support silver demand at or near recent levels,” Krauth said.

Recession could provide headwinds

Another potential headwind for silver is the looming prospect of a recession in the US.

At the beginning of 2024, analysts had largely reached a consensus that some form of recession was inevitable.

While real GDP in the US rose 2.8 percent year-on-year for 2024, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s GDPNow tool shows a projected -2.8 percent growth rate for the first quarter.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis won't release official real GDP figures until April 30, but the Atlanta Fed’s numbers suggest a troubling fall in GDP that could signal an impending recession.

In comments to INN, Mind Money CEO Julia Khandoshko indicated that a recession may negatively impact the silver market due to the growing demand for silver from energy transition markets.

“When the economy slows down, demand for manufactured goods, including silver, decreases, which means that buying in the next six months is unlikely to be a wise decision,” she said.

Solar panels account for significant demand, with considerable amounts also used in electric vehicles. Tariffs on US vehicle imports and a possible recession could create added pressure for silver.

"In my view, there’s a strong possibility of witnessing a shock from a severe supply shortage in the silver market within the next six months or so" — Peter Krauth, Silver Stock Investor

“Another important factor is silver’s connection to the electric vehicle market. Previously, this sector supported demand for the metal, but now its growth has slowed down. In Europe and China, interest in electric cars is no longer so active, and against the background of economic problems, sales may even decline,” Khandoshko said.

Silver demand from solar panel production stands at 232 million ounces annually, with an additional 80 million ounces used by the electric vehicle sector. A recession could lead consumers to postpone major purchases, such as home improvements or new vehicles, particularly if coupled with the extra costs of tariffs.

Although the impact of tariffs on the economy — and ultimately demand for silver — remains uncertain, the Silver Institute’s latest news release on March 3 indicates a fifth consecutive annual supply deficit.

Silver price forecast for 2025

“I think silver will hold up well and rise on balance over the rest of this year,” Krauth said.

He also noted that, like gold, there have been shipments of physical silver out of vaults in the UK to New York as market participants try to avoid any direct tariffs that may be coming.

“In my view, there’s a strong possibility of witnessing a shock from a severe supply shortage in the silver market within the next six months or so,” Krauth explained to INN.

Khandoshko suggested silver's outlook is more closely tied to consumer sentiment. “The situation may also change when the news stops discussing the high probability of a recession in the US,” she remarked.

With Trump announcing a sweeping 10 percent global tariff along with dozens of specific reciprocal tariffs on April 2, there appears to be more instability and uncertainty ahead for the world’s financial systems.

This uncertainty has spread to precious metals, with silver trading lower on April 3 and retreating back toward the US$31 mark. Investors might be taking profits, but it could also be a broader pullback as they determine how to respond in a more aggressively tariffed world. In either scenario, the market may be nearing opportunities.

“There is some risk that we could see a near-term correction in the silver price. I don’t see silver as currently overbought, but gold does appear to be. I think we could get a correction in the gold price, which would likely pull silver lower. I could see silver retreating to the US$29 to US$30 level. That would be an excellent entry point. In that scenario, I’d be a buyer of both the physical metal and the silver miners,” Krauth said.

With increased industrial demand and its traditional safe-haven status, silver may present a more ideological challenge for investors in 2025 as competing forces exert their influence. Ultimately, supply and demand will likely be what drives investors to pursue opportunities more than its safe-haven appeal.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.

Top 5 Canadian Silver Stocks of 2025

Silver-mining companies and juniors have seen support from a strong silver price in 2025. Since the start of the year, the price of silver has increased by over 11 percent as of April 11, and it reached a year-to-date high of US$34.38 per ounce on March 27.

Silver’s dual function as a monetary and industrial metal offers great upside. Demand from energy transition sectors, especially for use in the production of solar panels, has created tight supply and demand forces.

Demand is already outpacing mine supply, making for a positive situation for silver-producing companies.

So far, aboveground stockpiles have been keeping the price in check, but the expectation is those stocks will be depleted in 2025 or 2026, further restricting the supply side of the market.

How has silver's price movement benefited Canadian silver stocks on the TSX, TSXV and CSE? The five companies listed below have seen the best performances since the start of the year. Data was gathered using TradingView's stock screener on February 12, 2025, and all companies listed had market caps over C$10 million at that time.

1. Discovery Silver (TSX:DSV)

Year-to-date gain: 185.92 percent
Market cap: C$848.98 million
Share price: C$2.03

Discovery Silver is a precious metals development company focused on advancing its Cordero silver project in Mexico. Additionally, it is looking to become a gold producer with its recently announced acquisition of the producing Porcupine Complex in Ontario, Canada.

Cordero is located in Mexico’s Chihuahua State and is composed of 26 titled mining concessions covering approximately 35,000 hectares in a prolific silver and gold mining district.

A 2024 feasibility study for the project outlines proven and probable reserves of 327 million metric tons of ore containing 302 million ounces of silver at an average grade of 29 grams per metric ton (g/t) silver, and 840,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 0.08 g/t gold. The site also hosts significant zinc and lead reserves.

The report also indicated favorable economics for development. At a base case scenario of US$22 per ounce of silver and US$1,600 per ounce of gold, the project has an after-tax net present value of US$1.18 billion, an internal rate of return of 22 percent and a payback period of 5.2 years.

Discovery's shares gained significantly on January 27, after the company announced it had entered into a deal to acquire the Porcupine Complex in Canada from Newmont (TSX:NGT,NYSE:NEM).

The Porcupine Complex is made up of four mines including two that are already in production: Hoyle Pond and Borden. Additionally, a significant portion of the complex is located in the Timmins Gold Camp, a region known for historic gold production.

Discovery anticipates production of 285,000 ounces of gold annually over the next 10 years and has a mine life of 22 years. Inferred resources at the site point to significant expansion, with 12.49 million ounces of gold, from 254.5 million metric tons of ore with an average grade of 1.53 g/t.

Upon the closing of the transaction, Discovery will pay Newmont US$200 million in cash and US$75 million in common shares, and US$150 million of deferred consideration will be paid in four payments beginning on December 31, 2027.

According to Discovery in its full-year 2024 financial results, the Porcupine acquisition will help support the financing, development and operation of Cordero. Discovery’s share price reached a year-to-date high of C$2.12 on March 31.

2. Almaden Minerals (TSX:AMM)

Year-to-date gain: 136.36 percent
Market cap: C$16.47 million
Share price: C$0.13

Almaden Minerals is a precious metals exploration company working to advance the Ixtaca gold and silver deposit in Puebla, Mexico. According to the company website, the deposit was discovered by Almaden’s team in 2010 and has seen more than 200,000 meters of drilling across 500 holes.

A July 2018 resource estimate shows measured resources of 862,000 ounces of gold and 50.59 million ounces of silver from 43.38 million metric tons of ore, and indicated resources of 1.15 million ounces of gold and 58.87 million ounces of silver from 80.76 million metric tons of ore with a 0.3 g/t cutoff.

In April 2022, Mexico’s Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) ruled that the initial licenses issued in 2002 and 2003 would be reverted back to application status after the court found there had been insufficient consultation when the licenses were originally assigned.

Ultimately, the applications were denied in February 2023, effectively halting progress on the Ixtaca project. While subsequent court cases have preserved Almaden’s mineral rights, it has yet to restore the licenses to continue work on the project.

In June 2024, Almaden announced it had confirmed up to US$9.5 million in litigation financing that will be used to fund international arbitrations proceedings against Mexico under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

In a December update, the company announced that several milestones had been achieved, including the first session with the tribunal, at which the company was asked to submit memorial documents outlining its legal arguments by March 20, 2025. At that time, the company stated it would vigorously pursue the claim but preferred a constructive resolution with Mexico.

In its most recent update on March 21, the company indicated that it had submitted the requested documents, claiming US$1.06 billion in damages. The memorial document outlines how Mexico breached its obligations and unlawfully expropriated Almaden’s investments without compensation.

Shares in Almaden reached a year-to-date high of C$0.135 on February 24.

3. Avino Silver & Gold Mines (TSX:ASM)

Year-to-date gain: 98.43 percent
Market cap: C$373.48 million
Share price: C$2.52

Avino Silver and Gold Mines is a precious metals miner with two primary silver assets: the producing Avino silver mine and the neighboring La Preciosa project in Durango, Mexico.

The Avino mine is capable of processing 2,500 metric tons of ore per day ore, and according to its FY24 report released on January 21 the mine produced 1.1 million ounces of silver, 7,477 ounces of gold and 6.2 million pounds of copper last year. Overall, the company saw broad production increases with silver rising 19 percent, gold rising 2 percent and copper increasing 17 percent year over year.

In addition to its Avino mining operation, Avino is working to advance its La Preciosa project toward the production stage. The site covers 1,134 hectares, and according to a February 2023 resource estimate, hosts a measured and indicated resource of 98.59 million ounces of silver and 189,190 ounces of gold.

In a January 15 update, Avino announced it had received all necessary permits for mining at La Preciosa and begun underground development at La Preciosa. It is now developing a 350-meter mine access and haulage decline. The company said the first phase at the site is expected to be under C$5 million and will be funded from cash reserves.

The latest update from Avino occurred on March 11, when it announced its 2024 financial results. The company reported record revenue of $24.4 million, up 95 percent compared to 2023. Avino also reduced its costs per silver ounce sold.

Additionally, Avino reported a 19 percent increase in production in 2024, producing 1.11 million ounces of silver compared to 928,643 ounces in 2023. The company’s sales also increased, up by 23 percent to 2.56 million ounces of silver compared to 2.09 million ounces the previous year.

Avino's share price marked a year-to-date high of C$2.80 on March 27.

4. Highlander Silver (CSE:HSLV)

Year-to-date gain: 90 percent
Market cap: C$160.17 million
Share price: C$1.90

Highlander Silver is an exploration and development company advancing projects in South America.

Its primary focus has been the San Luis silver-gold project, which it acquired in a May 2024 deal from SSR Mining (TSX:SSRM,NASDAQ:SSRM) for US$5 million in upfront cash consideration and up to an additional US$37.5 million if Highlander meets certain production milestones.

The 23,098 hectare property, located in the Ancash department of Peru, hosts a historic measured and indicated mineral resource of 9 million ounces of silver, with an average grade of 578.1 g/t, and 348,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 22.4 g/t from 484,000 metric tons of ore.

In July 2024, the company said it was commencing field activities at the project; it has not provided results from the program. In its December 2024 management discussion and analysis, the company stated it was undertaking a review of prior exploration plans and targets, adding that it believes there is exceptional growth potential.

Highlander's most recent news came on March 11, when it announced it had closed an upsized bought deal private placement for gross proceeds of C$32 million. The company said it will use the funding to further exploration activities at San Luis and for general working capital.

Shares in Highlander reached a year-to-date high of C$1.96 on March 31.

5. Santacruz Silver Mining (TSXV:SCZ)

Year-to-date gain: 85.45 percent
Market cap: C$192.16 million
Share price: C$0.51

Santacruz Silver is an Americas-focused silver producer with operations in Bolivia and Mexico. Its producing assets include the Bolivar, Porco and Caballo Blanco Group mines in Bolivia, along with the Zimapan mine in Mexico.

In a production report released on January 30, the company disclosed consolidated silver production of 6.72 million ounces, marking a 4 percent decrease from the 7 million ounces produced in 2023. This decline was primarily attributed to a reduction in average grades across all its mining properties.

In addition to its producing assets, Santacruz also owns the greenfield Soracaya project. This 8,325-hectare land package is located in Potosi, Bolivia. According to an August 2024 technical report, the site hosts an inferred resource of 34.5 million ounces of silver derived from 4.14 million metric tons of ore with an average grade of 260 g/t.

Shares in Santacruz reached a year-to-date high of C$0.59 on March 18.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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