Endeavour Silver Reports $19.9 Million Earnings in the Fourth Quarter, 2020 and $1.2 Million Earnings for the Full Year, 2020

Earnings Conference Call at 10am PST (1pm EST) Today

Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE: EXK; TSX: EDR) released today its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2020. The Company operates three silver-gold mines in Mexico: the Guanaceví mine in Durango state, the Bolañitos mine in Guanajuato state and the El Compas mine in Zacatecas state. All dollar ($) amounts are reported in United States dollars (US$).

Bradford Cooke, Endeavour CEO, commented, "While 2019 was operationally the most challenging in our 16-year history as a producing company, 2020 was perhaps one of the most satisfying. Notwithstanding a government mandated two-month suspension of mining operations due to the COVID pandemic, we delivered higher production and lower costs at each of our three operating mines in 2020."

"Lower costs coupled with higher metal prices drove significantly higher revenues, cash flow and earnings, which turned positive for the first time in three years thanks to our very strong performance in Q4, 2020. The operational turn-around programs implemented in 2019 have been a big success operationally and financially, a testament to the hard work, skill, passion and persistence of our operations team."

"We remain alert regarding the COVID pandemic in Mexico and diligent with all our health and safety protocols, continuing to prioritize our employees' safety as a key goal. I am pleased to report that Guanacevi, our largest mine, posted a second consecutive year with more than 1 million hours worked without a lost time accident."

2020 Fourth Quarter Highlights

  • Gross Sales: $61.2 million, up 81% from $34.6 million in Q4, 2019 on the sale of 1.4 million ounces (oz) of silver and 13,850 oz gold at average realized prices of $24.76 per oz silver and $1,885 per oz gold.

  • Cash Flow: $21.6 million from operations before working capital changes, up from negative $7.9 million in 2019, mine operating cash flow before taxes (1) was $30.2 million up from $4.9 million in Q4 2019.

  • Net Income: $19.9 million ($0.13 per share), up from a net loss of $17.9 million in Q4, 2019, Q4 2020 EBITDA was $24.3 million.

  • Metal Production: 1,117,289 oz silver and 12,586 oz gold for 2.1 million oz silver equivalent (AgEq), up 25% compared to 1,705,751 oz AgEq in Q4, 2019 using an 80:1 silver:gold ratio.

  • Cash Cost (1) : $6.83 per oz silver payable net of gold credits, down 50% from $13.63 per oz in Q4, 2019. Direct cost per tonne increased due to higher royalty payments and third-party ore purchased at the Guanaceví mine, partly offset by lower costs at the Bolanitos and El Compas mines. Excluding royalties and special mining duties, operating cost per tonne declined in Q4, 2020 due to improved productivity.

  • All-in Sustaining Cost (AISC) (1) : $18.52 per oz silver payable net of gold credits, down 20% from $23.20 per oz in Q4, 2019.

2020 Full Year Highlights

  • Gross Revenue: $140.3 million, up 15% from $121.7 million in 2019 on the sale of 3.5 million oz of silver and 35,519 oz gold at average realized prices of $21.60 per oz silver and $1,846 per oz gold.

  • Cash Flow: $28.8 million from operations before working capital changes, up from negative $8.9 million in 2019, mine operating cash flow before taxes ( 1) was $56.2 million up from $14.9 million in 2019.

  • Net Income: $1.2 million ($0.01 per share), up from a net loss of $48.1 million in 2019, full year EBITDA ( 1) was $29.4 million.

  • Metal Production: 3,513,767 oz silver and 37,139 oz gold for 6.5 million oz AgEq, down 9% from 7.1 million oz AgEq in 2019 using an 80:1 silver:gold ratio primarily due to the suspension of operations at the El Cubo mine on November 30, 2019.

  • Cash Cost ( 1) : $5.55 per oz silver payable net of gold credits, down 57% from $12.85 per oz in 2019.

  • All-in Sustaining Cost ( 1) : $17.59 per oz silver payable net of gold credits, down 17% from $21.19 per oz in 2019. Direct cost per tonne increased due to higher royalty payments and toll ore purchases at the Guanaceví mine, partly offset by lower costs at the Bolanitos and El Compas mines. Excluding royalties and special mining duties, operating cost per tonne declined due to improved productivity.

  • Balance Sheet: Year-end cash balance was $61.1 million, working capital was $70.4 million. Only long term debt consist of equipment loans of $6.1 million used to upgrade our mobile fleet. Raised net $25.3 million in proceeds from an ATM equity offering in the first seven months of 2020 with a new ATM of $60 million currently in place and available for use.

  • Guanacevi Continued to Outperform: Operating costs increased due to purchasing more toll ore from small miners, while the higher prices and profitability increased royalty payments and special mining duties. Delivered free cash flow of $20.8 million.

  • Bolanitos Continued to Improve: Higher prices and improved profitability resulted in higher special mining duties which increased direct costs per tonne. Direct operating costs improved from 2019 due to increased productivity in 2020. Delivered free cash flow of $3.2 million.

  • El Compas Costs Improved: Cost profile improved compared to prior quarters, while throughput remained steady.

  • Terronera Pre-Feasibility Study Finalized: Represents the Company's next core asset with a low CAPEX, low operating costs, short payback period and exceptional financial returns, feasibility study now half way towards completion in Q3, 2021.

  • Expanded Land Position and Resumed Greenfields Exploration at Terronera: Acquired two adjacent mineral concessions spanning 4,959 hectares, covering multiple mineralized vein structures, and resumed drilling of untested veins.

  • Delivered Positive Brownfields Exploration Results: Drilling continued to intersect high-grade gold-silver mineralization in the Santa Cruz vein at Guanacevi, the Melladito and San Bernabe veins at Bolanitos, and the Misie and Calicanto veins in the El Compas district.

(1) Mine operating cash flow, direct cost per tonne, direct operating cost per tonne, cash costs and all-in sustaining costs are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to the definitions in the Company's Management Discussion & Analysis.

Financial Overview

In 2020, revenue, net of smelting and refining costs, increased 18% to $138.4 million as sharply higher metal prices were partly offset by 9% lower silver equivalent production year on year. Mine operating cash flows, operating cash flows, earnings and EBITDA all substantially increased compared to 2019. Net earnings improved to $1.2 million compared to a net loss of $48.1 million in 2019, including $19.9 million earnings in Q4, 2020.

A Company-wide review of operations in early 2019 identified several opportunities to improve operating performance. As a result, management initiated multiple remedial measures including changes of mine-site management and mining contractors, changes to shift and contractor supervision, renting used mining equipment, leasing new mining equipment and reducing the work force.

The goal of these remedial measures was to improve safety, boost productivity, reduce operating costs and generate free cash flow. Management notes that the remedial measures had a positive impact on mine operating performance, the operational turn-arounds were completed last year and the benefit of these initiatives was realized in the second half of 2020. These improvements accommodated increased health protocols and new government restrictions related to the COVID-19 global pandemic (COVID-19), including the temporary suspension of mining operations in April and May of 2020.

Direct costs per tonne in 2020 increased 4%, to $114.57 compared with 2019 due to higher royalties, special mining duties and toll ore purchases offset by improved productivity at the Guanaceví and Bolañitos operation, the depreciation of the Mexican Peso and the exclusion of the El Cubo operation, which suspended activities in Q4, 2019. Direct operating cost per tonne, which excludes royalties and special mining duties, was 6% lower at $101.17 per tonne compared to $107.96 per tonne in 2019.

Consolidated cash costs per oz, net of by-product credits, decreased 57% to $5.55 primarily due to higher ore grades and higher a realized gold price that increased the by-product credit compared to 2019. All-in sustaining cost decreased 17% to $17.59 per oz in 2020 as a result of lower operating costs partly offset by higher corporate general and administrative costs and increased capital expenditures to accelerate mine development. General and administrative costs increased $2.7 million primarily due to a $3.5 million expense related the mark to market of deferred share units.

Financial Results (Consolidated Statement of Operations Appended Below)

For the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company generated net revenue totalling $138.4 million (2019 - $117.4 million). During the year, the Company sold 3,460,638 silver oz and 35,519 gold oz at realized prices of $21.60 and $1,846 per oz respectively, compared to sales of 4,054,652 oz silver and 39,151 oz gold at realized prices of $16.29 and $1,422 per oz respectively in 2019.

Cost of sales for 2020 was $111.1 million, a decrease of 18% over the cost of sales of $134.8 million for 2019. The 18% decrease in cost of sales was primarily related to the 21% decrease in tonnes processed and the depreciation of the Mexican Peso while cost cutting and efficiency measures implemented during 2019 were partly offset by inefficiencies of the suspension and re-start of activities due to COVID-19 and higher royalty expense with the rising prices. Royalties increased 301% to $8.2 million due to higher realized prices and the increased mining of the high grade El Curso property at the Guanacevi operation which is subject to significantly higher royalty rates.

Mine operating earnings was $27.3 million compared to a loss of $17.4 million in 2019. Excluding depreciation and depletion of $28.1million (2019 - $31.5 million), stock-based compensation of $0.3 million (2019- $0.2 million) and the inventory write off of $0.4 million (2019- $0.6 million) mine operating cash flow before taxes was $56.2 million in 2020 (2019 – $14.9 million).

Operating losses before taxes was $0.8 million (2019 – loss of $43.9 million) after exploration expenditures of $9.8 million (2019 – $12.0 million), general and administrative expense of $12.7 million (2019 – $10.0 million), care and maintenance expense for the shutdown of the El Cubo mine of $3.0 million and $2.2 million in care and maintenance costs related to the temporary suspension of the Guanaceví, Bolañitos and El Compas operations due to COVID-19 in Q2, 2020. In 2020, the operating loss included impairments, net of impairment reversals, of non-current assets of $0.4 million related the value in use estimates of the Guanacevi and El Compas operations. The operating loss for 2019 included a severance expense of $4.6 million related to the suspension of operations at El Cubo at the end of 2019.

There was an income tax recovery of $2.2 million in 2020 compared to an income tax expense of $4.1 million in 2019. The $2.2 million tax recovery is comprised of $3.0 million in current income tax expense (2019 - $2.7 million) and $5.2 million in deferred income tax recovery (2019- $1.4 million deferred income tax expense). The current income tax expense consists of $2.0 million of special mining duty taxes and $1.0 million of income taxes. In 2019, the Company did not pay special mining duty due the losses generated at the operations. The deferred income tax recovery of $5.2 million is primarily due recognition loss carry forwards as the future profitability of the Guanacevi operation has significantly increased with the recent increase in reserve estimates.

Conference Call

A conference call to discuss these results will be held today, Monday, March 1 st at 10am PST (1pm EST). To participate in the conference call, please dial the numbers below. No pass-code is necessary.

Toll-free in Canada and the US: 1-800-319-4610
Local Vancouver: 604-638-5340
Outside of Canada and the US: +-604-638-5340

A replay of the conference call will be available by dialing 1-800-319-6413 in Canada and the US (toll-free) or +604-638-9010 outside of Canada and the US. The required pass-code is 5891#. The replay will also be available on the Company's website at www.edrsilver.com .

The complete financial statements and Management's Discussion & Analysis can be viewed on the Company's website, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov . All shareholders can receive a hard copy of the Company's complete audited financial statements free of charge upon request. To receive this material in hard copy, please contact Galina Meleger, Director Investor Relations at 604-640-4804, toll free at 1-877-685-9775 or email at gmeleger@edrsilver.com

About Endeavour Silver – Endeavour Silver Corp. is a mid-tier precious metals mining company that owns and operates three high-grade, underground, silver-gold mines in Mexico. Endeavour is currently advancing the Terronera mine project towards a development decision and exploring its portfolio of exploration and development projects in Mexico and Chile to facilitate its goal to become a premier senior silver producer. Our philosophy of corporate social integrity creates value for all stakeholders.

SOURCE Endeavour Silver Corp.

Contact Information :
Galina Meleger, Director Investor Relations
Toll free: (877) 685-9775
Tel: (604) 640-4804
Email: gmeleger@edrsilver.com
Website: www.edrsilver.com

Follow Endeavour Silver on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and LinkedIn

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States private securities litigation reform act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding Endeavour's anticipated performance in 2021 including changes in mining operations and production levels, the impact of COVID-19 and the timing and results of various activities. The Company does not intend to and does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, production levels, performance or achievements of Endeavour and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include but are not limited to changes in production and costs guidance, national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and Mexico; financial risks due to precious metals prices, operating or technical difficulties in mineral exploration, development and mining activities; risks and hazards of mineral exploration, development and mining; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, challenges to the Company's title to properties; the impact of COVID-19, as well as those factors described in the section "risk factors" contained in the Company's most recent form 40F/Annual Information Form filed with the S.E.C. and Canadian securities regulatory authorities.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to: the continued operation of the Company's mining operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, mining operations will operate and the mining products will be completed in accordance with management's expectations and achieve their stated production outcomes, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
COMPARATIVE HIGHLIGHTS

Three Months Ended December 31 2020 Highlights Year Ended December 31
2020 2019 % Change 2020 2019 % Change
Production
1,117,289 939,511 19% Silver ounces produced 3,513,767 4,018,735 (13%)
12,586 9,578 31% Gold ounces produced 37,139 38,907 (5%)
1,108,848 923,540 20% Payable silver ounces produced 3,482,094 3,951,923 (12%)
12,314 9,397 31% Payable gold ounces produced 36,392 38,003 (4%)
2,124,169 1,705,751 25% Silver equivalent ounces produced (1) 6,484,887 7,131,295 (9%)
6.83 13.63 (50%) Cash costs per silver ounce (2)(3) 5.55 12.85 (57%)
14.58 20.43 (29%) Total production costs per ounce (2)(4) 14.01 20.73 (32%)
18.52 23.20 (20%) All-in sustaining costs per ounce (2)(5) 17.59 21.19 (17%)
237,389 236,531 0% Processed tonnes 757,160 954,886 (21%)
105.07 110.64 (5%) Direct operating costs per tonne (2)(6) 101.17 107.96 (6%)
129.66 113.47 14% Direct costs per tonne (2)(6) 114.57 110.09 4%
14.83 15.19 (2%) Silver co-product cash costs (7) 12.97 14.18 (9%)
1,129 1,312 (14%) Gold co-product cash costs (7) 1,109 1,238 (10%)
Financial
60.7 33.5 81% Revenue (11) ($ millions) 138.4 117.4 18%
1,419,037 1,050,157 35% Silver ounces sold 3,460,638 4,054,652 (15%)
13,850 10,803 28% Gold ounces sold 35,519 39,151 (9%)
24.76 17.45 42% Realized silver price per ounce 21.60 16.29 33%
1,885 1,507 25% Realized gold price per ounce 1,846 1,422 30%
19.9 (17.9) 211% Net earnings (loss) ($ millions) 1.2 (48.1) 102%
20.8 (3.8) 649% Mine operating earnings (loss) ($ millions) 27.3 (17.4) 257%
30.2 4.9 519% Mine operating cash flow ($ millions) (8) 56.2 14.9 277%
21.6 (7.9) 375% Operating cash flow before working capital changes (9) 28.8 (8.9) 424%
24.3 (4.8) 603% Earnings before ITDA (10) ($ millions) 29.4 (11.1) 364%
70.4 38.4 83% Working capital ($ millions) 70.4 38.4 83%
Shareholders
0.13 (0.13) 199% Earnings (loss) per share – basic 0.01 (0.36) 103%
0.14 (0.06) 250% Operating cash flow before working capital changes per share (9) 0.19 (0.07) 600%
157,536,658 140,054,885 12% Weighted average shares outstanding 150,901,598 135,367,129 11%

The above highlights are key measures used by management, however they should not be the sole measures used in determining the performance of the Company's operations. The related definitions and reconciliations are contained in the Management Discussion and Analysis.


ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
  CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

Years ended
December 31, December 31,
2020 2019
Operating activities
Net earnings (loss) for the year $ 1,159 $ (48,066 )
Items not affecting cash:
Share-based compensation 3,003 3,195
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 28,863 32,050
Impairment of non-current assets, net 424 -
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (5,206 ) 2,358
Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain) (1,032 ) (100 )
Finance costs 1,357 602
Write off of IVA receivable - 151
Write off of mineral properties - 45
Write down of warehouse inventory - 233
Write down of inventory to net realizable value 405 576
Loss on asset disposal 86 43
Loss (gain) on other investments (233 ) 19
Net changes in non-cash working capital 10,138 (684 )
Cash from (used in) operating activities 38,964 (9,578 )
Investing activities
Proceeds on disposal of property, plant and equipment 190 11
Mineral property, plant and equipment expenditures (25,539 ) (21,519 )
Intangible asset expenditures - (280 )
Purchase of short term investments (5,497 ) -
Proceeds from disposal of marketable securities 1,032 -
Redemption of (investment in) non-current deposits - 3
Cash used in investing activities (29,814 ) (21,785 )
Financing activities
Repayment of loans payable (3,229 ) (1,343 )
Repayment of lease liabilities (183 ) (247 )
Interest paid (918 ) (391 )
Public equity offerings 26,367 23,557
Exercise of options 6,910 343
Share issuance costs (1,112 ) (716 )
Deferred financing costs (294 ) -
Cash from (used in) financing activities 27,541 21,203
Effect of exchange rate change on cash and cash equivalents 1,024 152
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 36,691 (10,160 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year 23,368 33,376
Cash and cash equivalents, end of the year $ 61,083 $ 23,368

This statement should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the related notes contained therein.


ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(expressed in thousands of US dollars, except for shares and per share amounts)

Years ended
December 31, December 31,
2020 2019
Revenue $ 138,461 $ 117,421
Cost of sales:
Direct production costs 74,101 100,482
Royalties 8,154 2,034
Share-based payments 330 195
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 28,136 31,495
Write down of inventory to net realizable value 405 576
111,126 134,782
Mine operating earnings (loss) 27,335 (17,361 )
Expenses:
Exploration 9,756 12,001
General and administrative 12,715 9,980
Care and maintenance costs 5,233 -
Impairment of non-current assets, net 424 -
Severance costs - 4,589
28,128 26,570
Operating earnings (loss) (793 ) (43,931 )
Finance costs 1,357 602
Other income (expense):
Write off of IVA receivable - (151 )
Foreign exchange (1,553 ) 101
Investment and other 2,649 579
1,096 529
Earnings (loss) before income taxes (1,054 ) (44,004 )
Income tax expense (recovery):
Current income tax expense 2,993 2,702
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (5,206 ) 1,360
(2,213 ) 4,062
Net earnings (loss) and comprehensive earnings (loss) for the year $ 1,159 $ (48,066 )
Basic earnings (loss) per share based on net earnings $ 0.01 $ (0.36 )
Diluted earnings (loss) per share based on net earnings $ 0.01 $ (0.36 )
Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding 150,901,598 135,367,129
Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding 154,039,714 135,367,129

This statement should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the related notes contained therein.


ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(expressed in thousands of US dollars)

December 31, December 31,
2020 2019
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents $ 61,083 $ 23,368
Other investments 4,767 69
Accounts and other receivable 20,144 18,572
Income tax receivable 52 4,378
Inventories 16,640 13,589
Prepaid expenses 2,284 3,302
Total current assets 104,970 63,278
Non-current deposits 591 606
Deferred financing costs 294 -
Non-current IVA receivable 2,676 2,048
Deferred income tax asset 12,753 7,136
Intangible assets 492 975
Right-of-use leased assets 861 1,337
Mineral properties, plant and equipment 87,955 88,333
Total assets $ 210,592 $ 163,713
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 27,764 $ 19,775
Income taxes payable 3,038 1,947
Loans payable 3,578 2,958
Lease liabilities 173 164
Total current liabilities 34,553 24,844
Loans payable 6,094 5,917
Lease liabilities 921 1,074
Provision for reclamation and rehabilitation 8,876 8,403
Deferred income tax liability 1,077 682
Total liabilities 51,521 40,920
Shareholders' equity
Common shares, unlimited shares authorized, no par value, issued
and outstanding 157,924,708 shares (Dec 31, 2019 - 141,668,178 shares) 517,711 482,170
Contributed surplus 9,662 11,482
Retained earnings (deficit) (368,302 ) (370,859 )
Total shareholders' equity 159,071 122,793
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 210,592 $ 163,713

This statement should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the related notes contained therein.


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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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