Fortuna reports record 2023 production of 452 koz Au Eq and 2024 annual guidance of 457 to 497 koz Au Eq

Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM) (TSX: FVI) reports production results for the fourth quarter and full year 2023 from its five operating mines in Latin America and West Africa. For the full year 2023, Fortuna produced a record 326,638 ounces of gold and 5,883,691 ounces of silver or a record 452,389 gold equivalent ounces, including lead and zinc by-products 1 . All references to dollar amounts in this news release are expressed in US dollars.

Fourth quarter 2023 highlights

  • Record gold equivalent production of 136,154 ounces 1 ; a 6 percent increase compared to Q3 2023 (128,671 oz Au Eq) 2
  • Record gold production of 107,376 ounces; a 13 percent increase compared to Q3 2023 (94,821 oz Au) 2
  • Silver production of 1,354,003 ounces; a 19 percent decrease compared to Q3 2023 (1,680,751 oz Ag) 2

Full year 2023 highlights

  • Record gold equivalent production of 452,389 ounces 1 ; a 13 percent increase compared to 2022 (401,878 oz Au Eq) 3
  • Record gold production of 326,638 ounces; a 26 percent increase compared to 2022 (259,427 oz Au) 3
  • Silver production of 5,883,691 ounces; a 15 percent decrease compared to 2022 (6.9 Moz Ag) 3
  • Record lead production of 40,851,657 pounds; an 18 percent increase over 2022 (34.6 Mlbs Pb) 3
  • Record zinc production of 55,060,450 pounds; a 19 percent increase over 2022 (46.2 Mlbs Zn) 3
  • Continuous trend of improvement in annual safety performance across the business with a Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) of 1.22, and a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) of 0.36, compared to 2.32 and 0.35 in 2022

2024 consolidated production and cost guidance highlights

  • Gold equivalent production 4 of between 457 and 497 thousand ounces; a projected increase of between 1 and 10 percent, respectively, compared to 2023
  • Gold production of between 343 and 385 thousand ounces; a projected increase of between 5 and 18 percent, respectively, compared to 2023
  • Silver production of between 4.0 and 4.7 million ounces; a projected decrease of between 32 and 21 percent, respectively, compared to 2023
  • Cash Cost of between $935 and $1,055/oz Au Eq 5 ; an approximate projected increase of between 6 and 20 percent, respectively, compared to 2023
  • AISC of between $1,485 and $1,640/oz Au Eq 5 ; an approximate projected decrease of 1 percent and an increase of 9 percent, respectively, compared to 2023

Notes:

  1. Au Eq includes gold, silver, lead and zinc and is calculated using the following metal prices: $1,948/oz Au, $23.37/oz Ag, $2,155/t Pb and $2,706/t Zn or Au:Ag = 1:83.38, Au:Pb = 1:0.90, Au:Zn = 1:0.72
  2. Refer to Fortuna news release dated October 5, 2023, " Séguéla drives Fortuna to record gold equivalent production of 128,671 ounces in the third quarter 2023"
  3. Refer to Fortuna news release dated January 17, 2023, " Fortuna reports 2022 full year record production of 401,878 gold equivalent ounces and issues 2023 annual guidance "
  4. Au Eq includes gold, silver, lead, and zinc and is calculated using the following metal prices: $1,800/oz Au, $22/oz Ag, $2,000/t Pb and $2,500/t Zn or Au:Ag = 1:81.82, Au:Pb = 1:1.11, Au:Zn = 1:1.39
  5. Refer to Appendix

2023 consolidated operating results

Gold production (oz) Silver production (oz)
Mines Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Séguéla, Côte d'Ivoire 1 43,096 78,617 60,000 - 75,000 - - -
Yaramoko, Burkina Faso 2 28,235 117,711 110,000 - 120,000 - - -
Lindero, Argentina 29,591 101,238 96,000 - 106,000 - - -
San Jose, Mexico 6,345 28,559 34,000 - 37,000 1,023,525 4,656,631 5,300,000 - 5,800,000
Caylloma, Peru 109 513 - 330,478 1,227,060 1,000,000 - 1,100,000
Total 107,376 326,638 282,000 - 320,000 1,354,003 5,883,691 6,300,000 - 6,900,000

Notes:

  1. Séguéla Mine production from June to December 2023
  2. Yaramoko annual gold production guidance revised upwards. Refer to Fortuna news release dated October 5, 2023, " Séguéla drives Fortuna to record gold equivalent production of 128,671 ounces in the third quarter 2023"

In 2023, record gold production was mainly driven by Séguéla contributing 78,617 ounces in the second half of the year, exceeding the upper range of guidance. Yaramoko also contributed 117,711 ounces, achieving the upper end of production guidance as a result of higher head grades. Consolidated silver production of 5.9 million ounces was 7 percent below the lower end of guidance, due to decreased production at San Jose as a result of the illegal union blockade in the second quarter and operational challenges thereafter.

Séguéla Mine, Côte d'Ivoire
Exceeds annual production guidance by 5 percent; operating 20 percent above nameplate capacity

Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Tonnes milled 387,624 807,617 -
Average tpd milled 4,123 3,146 -
Gold grade (g/t) 3.62 3.42 -
Gold recovery (%) 94.9 93.9 -
Gold production (oz) 1 43,096 78,617 2 60,000 - 75,000

Notes:

  1. Production includes doré only
  2. Séguéla Mine production from June to December 2023

Highlights

  • Q4 2023 gold production: 43,096 ounces
  • FY 2023 gold production: 78,617 ounces, exceeds annual production guidance

In the fourth quarter of 2023, mined material totaled 409,293 tonnes of ore, averaging 3.34 g/t Au, and containing an estimated 43,913 ounces of gold from the Antenna pit. Movement of waste during the quarter totaled 2,110,209 tonnes from Antenna and 104,472 tonnes from the Ancien pit, for a strip ratio of 5.4:1.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, Séguéla produced 43,096 ounces of gold at an average head grade of 3.62 g/t Au, a 37 percent increase and a 5 percent decrease, respectively, compared to the previous quarter. The increase in gold production is directly related to the mill achieving consistently higher throughput, processing 387,624 tonnes, a 25 percent increase over the previous quarter.

Mine reconciliation to reserve model

Reconciliation of tonnes, grade, and gold ounces mined for the fourth quarter from Antenna show a positive correlation when compared to the long-term reserve model with 6 percent higher ore tonnes mined at 16 percent higher grades resulting in 24 percent more gold ounces extracted than predicted in the model.

Processing

Process plant performance continued to improve as feed characteristics were stabilized and initial bottlenecks addressed. Recovery in the fourth quarter increased to 94.9 %, ahead of feasibility study assumptions. Plant productivity also continued to improve with throughput in the fourth quarter being 186 t/hr, a 20 percent increase on the 154 t/hr nameplate capacity.

Yaramoko Mine, Burkina Faso
Strong performance, achieves higher end of annual production guidance

Based on Yaramoko's strong performance during the year, management increased guidance in the third quarter of 2023 from 96 to 102 thousand ounces of gold to 110 to 120 thousand ounces of gold ( refer to Fortuna news release dated October 5, 2023 ).

Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Tonnes milled 110,445 531,579 -
Average tpd milled 1,200 1,456 -
Gold grade (g/t) 7.16 6.81 -
Gold recovery (%) 98.3 98.0 -
Gold production 1 (oz) 28,235 117,711 110,000 - 120,000

Note:

  1. Production includes doré only

Highlights

  • Q4 2023 gold production: 28,235 ounces
  • FY 2023 gold production: 117,711 ounces, achieving higher end of annual production guidance
  • 3 years LTI-free as of September 2023
  • Obtained ISO 14001 and 45001 certification

In the fourth quarter of 2023, Yaramoko produced 28,235 ounces of gold at an average head grade of 7.16 g/t Au, a 17 and 7 percent decrease, respectively, compared to the previous quarter. Reduced production was due to lower mill throughput in the fourth quarter, the depletion of low-grade stockpiles, and a planned maintenance shutdown in December.

Exploration and grade control drilling success in conjunction with underground development extended mineralization on the western side of the Zone 55 mineralized structure. This provided additional mining areas which demonstrated wider and higher-grade extensions of mineralization within and beyond the existing resource boundary.

Lindero Mine, Argentina
Achieved midpoint of annual production guidance

Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Ore placed on pad (t) 1,556,000 6,005,049 -
Gold grade (g/t) 0.63 0.64 -
Gold production (oz) 1 29,591 101,238 96,000 - 106,000

Note:

  1. Gold production includes doré, gold in carbon, and gold in copper concentrate

Highlights

  • Q4 2023 gold production: 29,591 ounces
  • FY 2023 gold production: 101,238 ounces, achieving midpoint of annual production guidance

During the fourth quarter of 2023, ore mined was 2.1 million tonnes, with a stripping ratio of
0.6:1, 45 percent lower than the previous quarter. The stripping ratio for 2023 was 1.14:1, aligned with the mining plan for the year. A total of 1.6 million tonnes of ore were placed on the leach pad at an average gold grade of 0.63 g/t, containing an estimated 31,665 ounces.

Lindero's gold production in the fourth quarter of 2023 was 29,591 ounces, a 41 percent increase compared to the previous quarter. Gold production was comprised of 24,977 ounces in doré bars,
4,443 ounces of gold contained in fine carbon, and 171 ounces contained in copper concentrate.

Gold production for 2023 totaled 101,238 ounces, comprised of 94,905 ounces in doré bars, 6,015 ounces in gold contained in fine carbon, and 319 ounces contained in copper concentrate.

As of December 31, 2023, the leach pad expansion project is approximately 23 percent complete. Mobilization of the civil contractor's personnel and equipment has advanced with earth moving activities having commenced in January. Deliveries of geomembrane and geosynthetic clay liner are
on-track, with the remaining materials expected to arrive on site in the first quarter of 2024. The leach pad expansion remains on schedule for completion during the second half of 2024.

San Jose Mine, Mexico
Illegal blockade and operational challenges lead to shortfall in annual production guidance

Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Tonnes milled 241,035 930,200 -
Average tpd milled 2,678 2,643 -
Silver grade (g/t) 145 171 -
Silver recovery (%) 90.78 90.96 -
Silver production (oz) 1,023,525 4,656,631 5,300,000 - 5,800,000
Gold grade (g/t) 0.91 1.06 -
Gold recovery (%) 89.64 90.18 -
Gold production (oz) 6,345 28,559 34,000 - 37,000


Highlights

  • Q4 2023 production: 1,023,525 ounces of silver and 6,345 ounces of gold
  • FY 2023 production: 4,656,631 ounces of silver, and 28,559 ounces of gold

During the fourth quarter of 2023, the San Jose Mine produced 1.02 million ounces of silver, and 6,345 ounces of gold, a 25 and 23 percent decrease, respectively, with average head grades for silver and gold of 145 g/t and 0.91 g/t, a 23 and 20 percent decrease, respectively, when compared to the previous quarter.

The decrease in silver and gold production for the quarter is explained by the declining grade profile of Mineral Reserves in the mine plan, as well as lower tonnage extracted from the mine. The reduction in tonnage is due to operational challenges leading to delays in backfilling and blasting operations in stopes P and Q during December 2023. During the fourth quarter, the processing plant milled 241,035 tonnes at an average of 2,678 tonnes per day.

Production in 2023 totaled 4,656,631 ounces of silver and 28,559 ounces of gold, 12 percent and 16 percent below annual guidance range, respectively. The decrease in production is attributed primarily to the 15-day illegal union blockade in the second quarter ( refer to Fortuna news release dated May 2, 2023 ), the associated disruption to operations thereafter, and a silver and gold head grade reconciliation to reserves at the lower end of guidance range.

Exploration continues at the newly discovered Yessi vein with encouraging results ( refer to Fortuna news release dated December 12, 2023 ).

Caylloma Mine, Peru
Outperformer, exceeds annual production guidance for all metals

Q4 2023 FY 2023 2023 Guidance
Tonnes milled 140,800 543,876 -
Average tpd milled 1,564 1,528 -
Silver grade (g/t) 88 85 -
Silver recovery (%) 83.40 82.57 -
Silver production (oz) 1 330,478 1,227,060 1,000,000 - 1,100,000
Lead grade (%) 3.84 3.74 -
Lead recovery (%) 90.58 91.14 -
Lead production (lbs) 10,798,242 40,851,657 29,000,000 - 32,000,000
Zinc grade (%) 5.00 5.11 -
Zinc recovery (%) 89.86 89.83 -
Zinc production (lbs) 13,933,215 55,060,450 43,000,000 - 48,000,000

Note:

  1. Metallurgical recovery for silver is calculated based on silver content in lead concentrate

Highlights

  • Q4 2023 production: 330,478 oz silver, 10.8 Mlbs lead, and 14.0 Mlbs zinc
  • FY 2023 production: 1,227,060 oz silver, exceeds annual production guidance
  • FY 2023 record base metal production: 40.9 Mlbs lead, 55.1 Mlbs zinc, exceeding annual production guidance by 28 and 15 percent, respectively

In the fourth quarter, the Caylloma Mine produced 330,478 ounces of silver at an average head grade of 88 g/t, a 7 and 6 percent increase, respectively, when compared to the previous quarter. Silver production for 2023 totaled 1,227,060 ounces, exceeding the upper end of annual guidance range by 10 percent.

Lead and zinc production for the quarter was 10.8 and 14.0 million pounds, respectively, a 4 percent increase for lead, with no variation for zinc, when compared to the previous quarter. Head grades averaged 3.84 %, and 5.00 %, a 5 percent increase, and 1 percent decrease, respectively, when compared to the previous quarter. Record lead and zinc production for 2023 totaled 40.9 and 55.1 million pounds, respectively. Increased production is the result of positive grade reconciliation to the reserve model in levels 16 and 18 of the Animas vein.

2024 consolidated production and cost guidance

Mine Silver (Moz) Gold (koz) Lead (Mlbs) Zinc (Mlbs) Cash Cost 1,3 AISC 1,2,3, 5
Silver ($/oz Ag Eq) ($/oz Ag Eq)
San Jose, Mexico 3.1 - 3.6 19 - 23 - - 20.3 - 22.3 22.8 - 24.0
Caylloma, Peru 0.9 - 1.1 - 29 - 34 36 - 39 12.7 - 14.0 18.0 - 21.0
Gold ($/oz Au) ($/oz Au)
Lindero, Argentina 4 - 93 - 105 - - 850 - 950 1,730 - 1,950
Yaramoko, Burkina Faso - 105 - 119 - - 865 - 965 1,220 - 1,320
Séguéla, Côte d´Ivoire - 126 - 138 - - 630 - 730 1,110 - 1,230
Consolidated Total 4.0 - 4.7 343 - 385 29 - 34 36 - 39 $935 - 1,055 6 $1,485 - 1,640 6

Notes:
1.  Cash Cost and all-in sustaining cost (AISC) are non-IFRS financial measures which are not standardized financial measures under the financial reporting framework used to prepare the financial statements of the Company and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Refer to the note under "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" below.
2.  Cash cost includes production cash cost and for Lindero, is net of copper by-product credit. AISC includes sustaining capital expenditures, worker's participation (as applicable) commercial and government royalties mining tax, export duties (as applicable), subsidiary G&A and Brownfields exploration and is estimated at metal prices of $1,800/oz Au, $22/oz Ag, $2,000/t Pb, and $2,500/t Zn. AISC excludes government mining royalty recognized as income tax within the scope of IAS-12.
3.  Silver equivalent is calculated at metal prices of $1,800/oz Au, $22/oz Ag, $2,000/t Pb and $2,500/t Zn.
4.  The cost guidance for the Lindero Mine does not take into account potential changes by the new Argentine Government to national macroeconomic policies, the taxation system and import and export duties which, if implemented, may have a material impact on costs.
5.  Historical non-IFRS measure cost comparatives: The following table provides the historical cash costs and historical AISC for the Company's four mines which were operating during the year ended December 31, 2022, as follows:

Mine Cash Cost a,b,c AISC a,b,c
Silver ($/oz Ag Eq) ($/oz Ag Eq)
San Jose, Mexico 10.56 15.11
Caylloma, Peru 12.34 17.97
Gold ($/oz Au) ($/oz Au)
Lindero, Argentina 740 1,142
Yaramoko, Burkina Faso 840 1,529

(a)  Cash cost and AISC are non-IFRS financial measures; refer to the note under "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" below.
(b)  Silver equivalent was calculated at metal prices of $1,802/oz Au, $21.75/oz Ag, $2,161/t Pb and $3,468/t Zn for the year ended December 31, 2022.
(c)  Further details on the cash costs and AISC for the year ended December 31, 2022 are disclosed on pages 38, 40, and 41 (with respect to cash costs) and pages 39 and 42 (with respect to AISC) of the Company's management discussion and analysis ("MD&A") for the year ended December 31, 2022 dated as of March 15, 2023 ("2022 MD&A") which is available under Fortuna's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and is incorporated by reference into this news release, and the note under "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" below.

6.  Refer to Appendix.

2024 Guidance Outlook

Séguéla Mine, Côte d'Ivoire
Mill throughput expanded to 1.46 Mta, achieving 70% of mill expansion scheduled for 2026

The 2024 mine plan considers mining in the Antenna, Ancien, and Koula pits, with plans to process
1.46 million tonnes of ore averaging 3.0 g/t Au, and capital investments estimated at $39.8 million, including $32 million for sustaining capital expenditures and $7.8 million for Brownfields exploration programs.

Feasibility and optimization work is underway to realize the opportunity to incorporate underground mineable resources at the Sunbird, Ancien, and Koula deposits.

Major sustaining capital investments include:

  • Capitalized stripping
$17.1 million
  • Tailings storage facility (TSF) lift
$4.8 million
  • Other miscellaneous
$10.1 million

Capitalized stripping at Séguéla corresponds to further mining of the Antenna pit and development and mining of the Ancien and Koula pits. The overall stripping ratio for 2024 is planned to be 8.2:1. AISC for 2024 reflects the ongoing TSF expansion project, which will add tailings holding capacity for the next two years and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024.

In 2024, annual ore processing is expanded to 1.46 million tonnes, 17 percent above tonnage scheduled for year 1 in the 2021 Technical Report, and close to the expansion target of 1.57 million tonnes scheduled for year 3. Process plant de-bottlenecking initiatives in 2024 still present upside opportunities for throughput capacity.

Cash cost and AISC:

  • The Company expects a 2024 cash cost between $630 and $730 per ounce of gold, an increase of approximately 113 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 84 percent at the lower range of guidance. The increase is mainly due to the mine's stripping ratio rising from 3.7:1 to 8.2:1, in accordance with the mine plan. In addition, higher costs are anticipated for processing, which include milling, energy consumption, freight, transportation, and overhead.
  • The Company expects a 2024 AISC between $1,110 and $1,230 per ounce of gold, an increase of approximately 54 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 39 percent at the lower range of guidance. The increase is explained by higher cash cost per ounce and higher capex per ounce of approximately $120 related to capitalized stripping costs.

Yaramoko Mine, Burkina Faso
Grade and tonnages benefit from exploration success in 2023

At the Yaramoko Mine, the Company plans to process 435,000 tonnes of ore averaging 8.3 g/t Au. Capital investment decreases substantially compared to previous years and in 2024 mainly comprises of development and exploration activities.

Major sustaining capital investment projects include:

  • Mine development
$13.9 million
  • Brownfields exploration
$6.1 million

Cash cost and AISC:

  • The Company expects a 2024 cash cost between $865 and $965 per ounce of gold, an increase of approximately 29 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 16 percent at the lower range of guidance. The increase is due primarily to the reallocation of fixed mining costs from capex to opex and lower processed ore.
  • The Company expects a 2024 AISC between $1,220 and $1,320 per ounce of gold, a decrease of approximately 7 percent under 2023 at the upper range, and 14 percent at the lower range of guidance. The decrease is explained by lower capex year over year of approximately $250 per ounce of gold.

Lindero Mine, Argentina
Sustaining capital intensive year, including a one-time leach pad expansion of $41.7 million

The Lindero Mine is expected to place 6.6 million tonnes of ore on the leach pad averaging 0.62 g/t Au, containing an estimated 131,000 ounces of gold. Capital investments are estimated at $64.0 million, including $51.5 million in capital projects, and $12.5 million in capitalized stripping costs.

Major sustaining capital investments include:

  • Capitalized stripping
$12.5 million
  • Leach pad phase II expansion
$41.7 million
  • Heavy equipment replacement and overhaul
$6.6 million
  • Plant critical spare parts
$3.2 million

Cash cost and AISC:

  • The Company expects a 2024 cash cost between $850 and $950 per ounce of gold, mostly in line with 2023.
  • The Company expects a 2024 AISC between $1,730 and $1,950 per ounce of gold, an increase of approximately 22 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 9 percent at the lower range of guidance. 2024 is a particularly capital intensive year for Lindero, including a one-time leach pad phase II expansion project which is planned to be completed in the second half of 2024, with a capital estimate of $41.7 million.

While the mine continues delivering on cost savings from operational efficiency programs, the economics of Lindero are exposed to potential significant impacts in changes to macro-economic and taxation policies, derived from emergency announcements made by the newly elected Government in its attempt to eliminate the national fiscal deficit. Cash cost per ounce does not include any potential changes to the Argentine taxation regime on imports and export duties, as these are still being discussed by the Government and Congress. However, if passed as advertised, these represent additional risks to higher cash cost per ounce and AISC estimates.

San Jose Mine, Mexico
Cost increments lead to exhaustion of reserves by year end 2024

At the San Jose Mine, the Company plans to process 0.90 million tonnes of ore averaging 142 g/t Ag and 0.9 g/t Au. Silver and gold production reflect the declining grade profile of the tail end of the Mineral Reserves.

The updated mine plan for 2024 is scheduled to exhaust Mineral Reserves by the end of 2024, compared to mid-2025 as previously planned. Over the past 12 months, the operation has experienced significant cost increments, of which the main drivers are:

  • Mexican Peso appreciation; representing approximately 35 percent of cost increment.
  • Higher contractor costs for transportation, distribution, shotcrete, maintenance, and mining services; representing approximately 16 percent of cost increment.
  • Higher labor costs and new labor reform mandates, which took effect on January 1, 2024; representing approximately 21 percent of cost increment.
  • Change from owner's mining fleet to contractor for mine development; representing approximately 6 percent of cost increment.
  • Higher costs in fuel, energy, materials, and consumables related to 2023 inflation; representing approximately 5 percent of cost increment.

As a result of the cost increments described above, the mine plan has been reduced by approximately
six months, leading to an anticipated closure in late 2024 from the previous estimation of closure in mid-2025. The Company has assigned a dedicated team to review and update a multiyear progressive mine closure and monitoring plan with a current budget of approximately $27 million, which will begin its implementation during 2024. Multiple considerations are being included such as closure-related technical studies and designs, remediation of affected areas, decommissioning and removal of infrastructure, landform reshaping, revegetation, and value-added activities for the communities associated with progressive closure, repurposing, and where appropriate, long-term monitoring and maintenance, whilst adhering to strict compliance with mine closure governmental regulations and high international standards.

The Company is engaged in an intensive exploration program to delineate the newly discovered Yessi vein.

Cash cost and AISC:

  • The Company expects a 2024 cash cost between $20.3 and $22.3 per ounce of silver, an increase of approximately 70 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 54 percent at the lower range of guidance. The increase is mainly explained by lower production related to the grade profile as per the remaining life of mine plan, and the impact of higher projected operational expenditures, reflecting incremental costs throughout 2023. In addition, cash cost includes remaining lateral and vertical development and infill drilling required to complete final stoping and mining, as well as mining equipment overhauling, totaling $10.7 million.
  • The Company expects a 2024 AISC between $22.8 and $24.0 per ounce of silver, an increase of approximately 31 percent over 2023 at the upper range, and 24 percent at the lower range of guidance. The increase is mainly explained by lower volume and higher cash cost, partially offset by no capital expenditures in 2024.

Caylloma Mine, Peru
Consistent performer

At the Caylloma Mine, the Company plans to process 0.5 million tonnes of ore averaging 78 g/t Ag, 3.12 % Pb, and 4.20 % Zn. Capital investments are estimated at $21.0 million, including $19.0 million for sustaining capital expenditures and $2.0 million for Brownfields exploration programs.

Sustaining capital investments include:

  • Mine development
$5.1 million
  • Caylloma Mine substation power grid enhancement
$2.9 million
  • Plant power sub-station, phase II
$1.4 million
  • New paste backfill system
$4.7 million
  • Operating permits and Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM)
$1.2 million
  • Maintenance
$3.7 million

Cash cost and AISC:

  • The Company expects a 2024 cash cost between $12.7 and $14.0 per ounce of silver, a decrease of approximately 6 percent under 2023 at the upper range, and 14 percent at the lower range of guidance. The decrease is mainly due to lower treatment and refining charges in 2024.
  • The Company expects a 2024 AISC between $18.0 and $21.0 per ounce of silver, in line with 2023 at the upper range, and a decrease of 14 percent at the lower range of guidance. The decrease is explained mainly by lower cash costs and slightly lower capital expenditures.

2024 Exploration Outlook

Fortuna continues to advance its robust pipeline of Brownfields and Greenfields exploration projects in West Africa and the Americas, building on the success of the exploration programs carried out in 2023.

Brownfields Exploration

Fortuna´s consolidated Brownfields exploration budget for 2024 for its five mines and the Diamba Sud Gold Project totals $30.8 million, which includes 192,500 meters of reverse circulation, diamond core, and air core exploration drilling.

Séguéla Mine, Côte d'Ivoire

The Brownfields exploration program budget for 2024 at Séguéla is $7.8 million, which includes 41,750 meters of exploration drilling, focused on testing and extending underground targets associated with the Sunbird, Ancien, and Koula deposits, as well as advancing emerging deposits such as Barana, Badior, and Kestral, and continuing to explore for additional prospects.

San Jose Mine, Mexico

The Brownfields exploration program budget for 2024 at San Jose is $4.9 million, which includes 13,900 meters of diamond drilling, focused on testing and extending the Yessi vein as well as exploring additional targets within the mine area.

Yaramoko Mine, Burkina Faso

The Brownfields exploration program budget for 2024 at Yaramoko is $6.1 million, which includes 41,450 meters of exploration drilling, with underground drilling testing western and depth extensions to the Zone 55 deposit, surface drilling testing several anomalies along the Boni Shear, Bagassi South surface extensions, and other surface targets.

Caylloma Mine, Peru

The Brownfields exploration program budget for 2024 at Caylloma is $2.0 million, supporting field exploration, regional geophysics, and ongoing studies of the structural controls to mineralization on the Animas vein.

Diamba Sud Gold Project, Senegal

The Brownfields exploration program budget for 2024 at the Diamba Sud Gold Project is $9.9 million, which includes 42,700 meters of drilling, including extension and resource development, in addition to the testing and advancement of previously identified geochemistry anomalies. Additional geochemical and geophysical surveys at Diamba Sud will be conducted in support of advancing the project.

Greenfields Exploration

Greenfields exploration will continue in Mexico, Argentina, Senegal, and Côte d'Ivoire advancing generative programs across several projects supported by a budget of $7.5 million, including continuing active corporate development.

Qualified Person

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

Paul Weedon, Senior Vice President of Exploration for Fortuna Silver Mines Inc., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 being a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (Membership #6001). Mr. Weedon has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information relating to exploration contained in this news release.

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 | X | 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 may include, without limitation, statements about the Company's plans for its mines and mineral properties; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; the impact of inflationary pressures on the Company's business and operations;   estimates of production in 2023 that remain subject to verification and adjustment; the Company's anticipated financial and operational performance in 2024; estimated production forecasts for 2024; estimated costs; estimated cash costs and all-in sustaining cash costs and expenditures for 2024; estimated capital expenditures in 2024; estimated Brownfields and Greenfields expenditures in 2024; exploration plans; the future results of exploration activities; the timing of the implementation and completion of sustaining capital investment projects at the Company's mines;   expectations with respect to metal grade estimates and the impact of any variations relative to metals grades experienced; metal prices, currency exchange rates and interest rates in 2024; timing of and possible outcome of litigation; mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; life of mine estimates, including the estimated closure of the San Jose Mine in late 2024; the Company's expectation that the leach pad expansion project at the Lindero Mine will be completed during the second half of 2024; the Company's expectation that the two year capacity lift of the TSF at the Séguéla Mine should be completed in H1 2024; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlook; the merit of the Company's mines and mineral properties; and the future financial or operating performance of the Company. Often, but not always, these Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of words such as "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "planned", "reflecting", "will", "anticipated", "estimated" "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,   operational risks associated with mining and mineral processing; uncertainty relating to Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates; uncertainty relating to capital and operating costs, production schedules and economic returns; uncertainties related to new mining operations, 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 relating to the Company's ability to replace its Mineral Reserves; risks associated with mineral exploration and project development; uncertainty relating to the repatriation of funds as a result of currency controls; environmental matters including obtaining or renewing environmental permits and potential liability claims; uncertainty relating to nature and climate conditions; risks associated with political instability and changes to the regulations governing the Company's business operations; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in countries in which the Company does or may carry on business, including relating to the newly elected government in Argentina; risks associated with war, hostilities or other conflicts, such as the Ukrainian – Russian conflict, and the impact it may have on global economic activity; risks relating to the termination of the Company's mining concessions in certain circumstances; developing and maintaining relationships with local communities and stakeholders; risks associated with losing control of public perception as a result of social media and other web-based applications; potential opposition to the Company's exploration, development and operational activities; risks related to the Company's ability to obtain adequate financing for planned exploration and development activities; property title matters; risks relating to the integration of businesses and assets acquired by the Company; impairments; risks associated with climate change legislation; reliance on key personnel; adequacy of insurance coverage; operational safety and security risks; legal proceedings and potential legal proceedings; the possibility that the ruling in favor of Compania Minera Cuzcatlan S.A. de C.V. ("Minera Cuzcatlan") to reinstate the environmental impact authorization at the San Jose mine (the "EIA") will be successfully appealed; uncertainties relating to general economic conditions; risks relating to a global pandemic, which could impact the Company's business, operations, financial condition and share price; competition; fluctuations in metal prices; risks associated with entering into commodity forward and option contracts for base metals production; fluctuations in currency exchange rates and interest rates; tax audits and reassessments; risks related to hedging; uncertainty relating to concentrate treatment charges and transportation costs; sufficiency of monies allotted by the Company for land reclamation; risks associated with dependence upon information technology systems, which are subject to disruption, damage, failure and risks with implementation and integration; risks associated with climate change legislation;   labor relations issues; as well as those factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022. 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 its 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); the duration and effect of global and local inflation; the duration and impacts of geo-political uncertainties on the Company's production, workforce, business, operations and financial condition; the expected trends in mineral prices, inflation and currency exchange rates; that   any appeal in respect of the ruling in favor of Minera Cuzcatlan to reinstate the EIA will not be successful;   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 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.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

This news release also refers to non-IFRS financial measures, including cash costs and all-in sustaining costs. These measures are not standardized financial measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), the financial reporting framework used to prepare the financial statements of the Company, and therefore may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other mining companies.   These Non-IFRS Measures include cash costs and all-in sustaining cash costs.

Readers should refer to the "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" section in the Company's 2022 MD&A, which section is incorporated herein by reference, for an explanation of these measures and reconciliations to the Company's reported financial results in accordance with IFRS. The MD&A 2022 is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca .

Appendix   :   2024 cash cost and consolidated AISC guidance

Cash Cost Guidance ($/oz Au Eq) 2024 Guidance
Lindero 850 - 950
San Jose 1,775 - 1,965
Caylloma 1,045 - 1,150
Yaramoko 865 - 965
Séguéla 630 - 730
Consolidated cash cost $   935 - $   1,055


AISC Guidance ($/oz Au Eq) 2024 Guidance
Lindero 1,730 - 1,950
San Jose 1,915 - 2,020
Caylloma 1,475 - 1,720
Yaramoko 1,220 - 1,320
Séguéla 1,110 - 1,230
Corporate G&A 65
Consolidated AISC $   1,485 - $   1,640

Note:

  1. Cash cost includes production cash cost and for Lindero, is net of copper by-product credit. AISC includes sustaining capital expenditures, worker's participation (as applicable) commercial and government royalties mining tax, export duties (as applicable), subsidiary G&A and Brownfields exploration and is estimated at metal prices of $1,800/oz Au, $22/oz Ag, $2,000/t Pb, and $2,500/t Zn. AISC excludes government mining royalty recognized as income tax within the scope of IAS-12.



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Silver Price Forecast - What Happened And Where Do We Go From Here?

Silver Outlook

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”
— David Morgan, the Morgan Report

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The Investing News Network is a growing network of authoritative publications delivering independent, unbiased news and education for investors. We deliver knowledgeable, carefully curated coverage of a variety of markets including gold, cannabis, biotech and many others. This means you read nothing but the best from the entire world of investing advice, and never have to waste your valuable time doing hours, days or weeks of research yourself.

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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