SilverCrest Announces High-Grade Drill Results on Multiple Veins in the Babicanora Area

  • 2.3m (ETW) Grading 87.05 gpt Au and 6,469.2 gpt Ag, or 14,034 gpt AgEq
  • 3.7m (ETW) Grading 40.42 gpt Au and 6,089.4 gpt Ag, or 9,602 gpt AgEq

TSX: SIL | NYSE American: SILV

SilverCrest Metals Inc. ("SilverCrest" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional in-fill and expansion drill results from the Babi Vista Vein Splay ("Splay"), Babi Vista Vein ("Babi Vista"), Granaditas 1 Vein, Granaditas 2 Vein, and adjacent hangingwall ("HW") and footwall ("FW") veins in the Babicanora Area of its Las Chispas Project ("Las Chispas" or the "Project") located in Sonora, Mexico ( see following Tables and attached Figures ).

Maps and Figures (CNW Group/SilverCrest Metals Inc.)

Highlights

  • In-fill and expansion drill results being reported in this news release represent an additional 78 holes, totaling approximately 29,308 metres completed since the latest news release for Babi Vista, Splay and Granaditas veins.
  • Results are in areas with mineral resources (see Feasibility Study i announced on February 2, 2021 ) and in close proximity to planned underground development.
  • Confirmed southeastern vein continuity and convergence of the Babi Vista, Splay and Granaditas veins. Mineral resources, together with exploration high-grade footprints, can now be traced for an estimated 1.3 kilometres of vein strike length.
  • The latest 31 drill holes within the high-grade footprint of the Splay have an average estimated true width ("ETW") of 0.91 metres grading 16.12 grams per tonne ("gpt") gold ("Au") and 1,351.5 gpt silver ("Ag"), or 2,752 gpt silver equivalent ("AgEq", 86.9:1 Au:Ag ratio, see note below tables). This compares to the Splay's Inferred Mineral Resource that contains 13.9 million AgEq ounces within 211,363 tonnes grading 13.00 gpt Au and 909.4 gpt Ag, or 2,039 gpt AgEq with an ETW of 1.27 metres.
  • The seven (7) mineralized drill holes in the Granaditas 1 Vein, included in this release, have an average ETW of 1.57 metres grading 19.24 gpt Au and 5,095.1 gpt Ag, or 6,767 gpt AgEq. This compares to the vein's Inferred Mineral Resource that contains 1.1 million AgEq ounces within 63,157 tonnes grading 3.20 gpt Au and 260.0 gpt Ag, or 538 gpt AgEq with an ETW of 0.61 metres.
  • Significant drilling results:
    • Splay - Hole BV21-252 intercepted an ETW of 2.27 metres grading 87.05 gpt Au and 6,469.2 gpt Ag, or 14,034 gpt AgEq;
    • Granaditas 1 Vein – Hole BV20-221 intercepted an ETW of 3.65 metres grading 40.42 gpt Au and 6,089.4 gpt Ag or 9,602 gpt AgEq; and
    • Granaditas 1 Vein - Hole GR21-28 intercepted an ETW of 0.40 metres grading 114.00 gpt Au and 78,872.0 gpt Ag, or 88,779 gpt AgEq.
  • Approximately 90% of the planned 2021 in-fill drilling has been completed for the Splay.
  • Discovery of two additional "blind" veins in the hangingwall and footwall of Babi Vista and Splay.
  • Nine (9) drill rigs (6 surface core drills at Las Chispas and 3 at Picacho) are operating as part of the Company's 2021 exploration and optimization program.

The Company's current focus at Las Chispas is to in-fill (for resource conversion) and potentially expand the existing mineralized footprints in areas close to planned underground development. Currently, priority drilling is active at the Splay and Granaditas veins which host Inferred Mineral Resources that were not included in the Feasibility Study mine plan. The Feasibility Study outlines planned underground development which terminates within approximately 180 metres of high-grade drilling intercepts in the Splay, making this a priority target area for resource conversion to reserves. The results from the 2021 drill program will provide valuable information when evaluating potential opportunities to optimize the initial years of the proposed Las Chispas production profile. The in-fill drilling program at the Splay is estimated to be completed by the end of Q2 2021.

N. Eric Fier , CPG, P.Eng, and CEO, remarked, "We are very encouraged by the results from the Babi Vista and Granaditas areas, including the Babi Vista Vein Splay, which support our goal to target potential resource conversion proximal to planned and existing underground workings. Our systematic and aggressive approach to exploration continues to yield positive drill results in areas outside of the mine plan and further improves our knowledge of Las Chispas geology and mineralization. The primary aim of our 2021 program will be to grow the Mineral Resources and Reserves and complete optimization work to support further enhancements to the already robust economics of the Las Chispas Project. Additional Reserves increase the potential for optimization of the mine plan and allow us to further study the Project's production throughput and mine life expansion."

The following tables summarize all the significant drill intercepts (uncapped, undiluted) for this release:

Babi Vista Vein Splay

Hole ID

From (m)

To (m)

Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au

gpt

Ag gpt

AgEq

gpt*

BV20-227

307.05

308.20

1.15

0.92

24.75

2,003.7

4,155

Incl.

307.60

308.20

0.60

0.48

35.80

3,010.0

6,121

BV20-229

294.00

294.50

0.50

0.40

33.70

3,320.0

6,249

BV20-231A §

317.00

318.00

1.00

0.80

2.78

357.0

599

BV20-234

352.55

355.55

3.00

2.40

8.94

1,011.0

1,788

Incl.

355.05

355.55

0.50

0.40

47.90

5,520.0

9,683

BV20-235

338.85

342.60

3.75

3.00

2.36

219.6

424

Incl.

342.10

342.60

0.50

0.40

7.26

702.0

1,247

BV20-237

320.50

321.15

0.65

0.52

19.45

1,465.0

3,155

BV20-238

354.50

356.60

2.10

1.68

5.30

591.2

1,052

BV20-240

309.93

311.40

1.47

1.18

18.10

1,330.0

2,903

BV20-241

334.15

335.27

1.12

0.90

1.51

152.0

283

BV20-242

282.37

282.94

0.57

0.46

3.58

496.0

807

BV20-243

314.22

315.23

1.01

0.81

3.92

350.0

691

BV20-244

323.55

327.25

3.70

2.96

1.40

214.6

336

BV20-248

289.80

290.30

0.50

0.40

5.58

484.0

969

BV21-250

280.69

281.41

0.72

0.58

1.23

97.0

204

BV21-251

364.50

365.40

0.90

0.72

5.26

348.0

805

BV21-252

335.26

338.10

2.84

2.27

87.05

6,469.2

14,034

Incl.

335.80

337.10

1.30

1.04

185.65

13,958.6

30,092

BV21-257

368.64

369.70

1.06

0.85

61.40

6,040.0

11,376

BV21-258

329.42

330.00

0.58

0.46

0.84

103.0

176

BV21-259

393.75

394.25

0.50

0.40

17.95

1,500.0

3,060

BV21-261

376.46

376.96

0.50

0.40

34.50

2,140.0

5,138

BV21-262

289.28

291.05

1.77

1.42

6.10

659.2

1,189

BV21-264

395.50

396.00

0.50

0.40

2.57

125.0

348

BV21-266

271.10

271.80

0.70

0.56

4.15

530.0

891

BV21-267

276.40

276.90

0.50

0.40

5.01

581.0

1,016

BV21-268

345.85

346.71

0.86

0.69

3.41

236.0

532

BV21-269

392.44

392.94

0.50

0.40

15.90

1,145.0

2,527

BV21-270

280.85

281.40

0.55

0.44

2.94

374.0

629

BV21-274

405.75

406.25

0.50

0.40

56.90

3,850.0

8,795

BV21-276

264.90

265.45

0.55

0.44

5.24

668.0

1,123

BV21-284

381.14

381.75

0.61

0.49

19.85

1,970.0

3,695

BV21-287

279.70

280.30

0.60

0.48

0.94

134.0

216

Weighted Average

1.16

0.91

16.12

1,351.5

2,752

Babi Vista Footwall and Granaditas 1

Hole ID

From

(m)

To (m)

Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au

gpt

Ag gpt

AgEq gpt*

Vein

BV20-221

170.50

175.06

4.56

3.65

40.42

6,089.4

9,602

Granaditas 1

Incl.

171.00

171.83

0.83

0.66

80.00

6,970.0

13,922

Babi Vista FW

Incl.

172.43

174.05

1.62

1.30

66.20

11,685.0

17,438

Babi Vista FW

BV20-222

106.12

108.10

1.98

1.58

2.08

216.4

398

Granaditas 1

BV20-231A §

237.61

238.20

0.59

0.47

0.92

85.2

165

Babi Vista FW

BV20-232

261.55

262.05

0.50

0.40

7.17

1,155.0

1,778

Babi Vista FW

BV20-241

256.70

257.30

0.60

0.48

1.57

185.0

321

Babi Vista FW

BV20-244

252.30

252.80

0.50

0.40

5.68

838.0

1,332

Babi Vista FW

BV21-264

349.00

349.50

0.50

0.40

3.02

245.0

507

Babi Vista FW

BV21-273

397.00

397.50

0.50

0.40

1.38

92.7

213

Babi Vista FW

BV21-281

360.80

361.30

0.50

0.40

1.92

177.0

344

Babi Vista FW

GR21-24

119.7

121.50

1.80

1.44

4.60

530.9

931

Granaditas 1

Incl.

121.00

121.50

0.50

0.40

13.65

1,460.0

2,646

Babi Vista FW

GR21-25

138.00

140.15

2.15

1.72

2.61

386.0

613

Granaditas 1

GR21-26

152.47

153.19

0.72

0.58

1.13

134.0

232

Granaditas 1

GR21-27

258.80

260.80

2.00

1.60

1.82

169.3

327

Granaditas 1

GR21-28

141.72

142.22

0.50

0.40

114.00

78,872.0

88,779

Granaditas 1

Weighted Average

1.24

0.99

15.80

4,095.9

5,469


Weighted Average w/o GR21-28

1.30

1.04

12.89

1,883.6

3,004


Babi Vista and Granaditas 2 Vein

Hole ID

From

(m)

To (m)

Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt

Ag gpt

AgEq

gpt*

Vein

BV20-238

305.60

306.10

0.50

0.40

6.95

868.0

1,472

Babi Vista Main

BV20-242

234.36

234.93

0.57

0.46

3.20

381.0

659

Babi Vista Main

BV21-256

204.92

205.48

0.56

0.45

1.28

113.0

224

Babi Vista Main

BV21-283

223.50

226.14

2.64

2.11

4.87

325.1

748

Babi Vista Main

BV21-287

331.39

331.90

0.51

0.41

2.85

282.0

530

Babi Vista Main

GR21-26

120.50

121.04

0.54

0.43

7.15

764.0

1,385

Granaditas 2

GR21-29

141.26

141.78

0.52

0.42

4.70

559.0

967

Granaditas 2

Weighted Average

0.83

0.67

4.56

414.3

810


Babi Vista Hangingwall

Hole ID

From

(m)

To (m)

Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt

Ag gpt

AgEq gpt*

BV20-234

376.00

376.50

0.50

0.40

5.29

570.0

1,030

BV21-256

305.50

306.03

0.53

0.42

1.36

117.0

235

BV21-257

424.47

425.10

0.63

0.50

2.48

170.0

386

BV21-279

484.54

485.05

0.51

0.41

1.20

170.0

274

Weighted Average

0.54

0.43

2.55

249.2

471

Unnamed Veins

Hole ID

From

(m)

To (m)

Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt

Ag gpt

AgEq gpt*

BV20-244

415.00

415.50

0.50

0.40

8.21

1,340.0

2,053

BV20-245

434.50

435.00

0.50

0.40

1.23

134.0

241

BV20-231A §

211.80

212.30

0.50

0.40

2.68

258.0

491

BV21-261

270.53

271.05

0.52

0.42

2.54

239.0

460

BV21-277

316.25

316.77

0.52

0.42

1.23

121.0

228

BV21-284

179.06

179.70

0.64

0.51

1.94

484.0

653

BV21-289

189.90

190.76

0.86

0.69

0.78

101.0

163

Note:

all numbers are rounded.


Cutoff grade of 150 gpt AgEq with a minimum width of 0.5 metres.


ETW at 80% of drilled intercept width.


* AgEq is based on gold to silver ratio of 86.9:1 calculated using US$1,410/oz Au and US$16.60/oz Ag, with average metallurgical recoveries of 96% Au and 94% Ag.


§ "A" denotes a redrill of a hole related to deviation or loss of core.

All assays were completed by ALS Chemex in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico , and North Vancouver, BC , Canada.

The drill results in the news release include holes: BV20-223 to BV-20-226, BV20-228, BV-20-230, BV20-233, BV20-236, BV20-239, BV20-246, BV20-247, BV20-249, BV21-253 to BV21-255, BV21-260, BV21-263, BV21-265, BV21-271, BV21-272, BV21-275, BV21-278, BV21-280, BV21-282, BV21-285, BV21-286A and BV21-288 intersected veining in the Babicanora Area but were below the Company's cutoff grade of 150 gpt AgEq over a minimum width of 0.50 metres (ETW).

Results being reported in this news release are up to and including holes BV21-289 and GR21-29 representing an additional 78 holes, totaling approximately 29,308 metres completed since the latest news release for the Babi Vista, Splay and Granaditas veins dated November 16, 2020 . These results include 51 holes which have intersected mineralization above a cutoff grade of 150 gpt AgEq over a minimum width of 0.50 metres ( see attached Figures ).  This cut-off grade is consistent with what was used in the Feasibility Study Mineral Resource Estimation. A variable cut-off grade strategy was used to determine Mineral Reserves in the Feasibility Study.

The Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate for the Splay is based on drilling results of 28 holes (totaling 10,216 metres) up to and including hole BV20-217 and totals 211,363 tonnes grading 13.00 gpt Au and 909.4 gpt Ag, or 2,039 gpt AgEq (totaling 13.9 million AgEq ounces) with an average ETW of 1.27 metres. Results from 31 drillhole intercepts at the Splay included in this release have a weighted average of 0.91 metres ETW grading 16.12 gpt Au and 1,351.5 gpt Ag, or 2,752 AgEq. These results include 16 drillhole intercepts greater than 1,000 gpt AgEq that surround the previous high-grade holes BV20-201 and BV20-203 (see news release dated November 16, 2020 ) and have an average ETW of 1.18 metres grading 28.20 gpt Au and 2,310.7 gpt Ag, or 4,761 gpt AgEq.

In-fill drilling has confirmed the presence of additional high-grade mineralization in the Granaditas veins with hole GR21-28 intercepting 0.40 metres ETW of 114.00 gpt Au and 78,872.0 gpt Ag, or 88,779 gpt AgEq.  Intercepts for seven (7) of seventeen (17) in-fill holes reported in this news release for Granaditas have intercepted mineralization with a weighted average intercept of 1.57 metres (ETW), grading 19.24 gpt Au and 5,095.1 gpt Ag, or 6,767 gpt AgEq.  When hole GR21-28 is excluded, the weighted average is 1.76 metres (ETW), grading 15.65 gpt Au and 2,302.6 gpt Ag, or 3,663 gpt AgEq.  The Granaditas veins currently hosts a combined Inferred Mineral Resource of 1.1 million AgEq ounces with 63,157 tonnes grading 3.20 gpt Au and 260.0 gpt Ag, or 538 gpt AgEq and an ETW of 0.61 metres, based on drilling results up to and including hole GR18-23. While drilling has not substantially expanded the Granaditas Resource footprint ( see attached Figures ), the intersection of exceptionally high-grade in GR21-28 is important geologically for understanding the Babicanora Area as it suggests that mineralization is not cut-off by the Granaditas Fault, a concept which can be further tested in adjacent veins. As drilling continues in the area, the in-fill drilling program intends to reduce the drill spacing to approximately 30 metres at Granaditas 1 Vein, from approximately 45 metres previously.

Results have confirmed southeastern convergence of the Babi Vista, Babi Vista Splay and Granaditas veins. High-grade precious metal mineralization including Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources can now be traced along a continuous 1.3 kilometre vein strike length from Babi Vista to Granaditas.

Two new veins are reported in this release in the footwall and hangingwall to the Babi Vista and Splay veins.  The Unnamed 1 Vein is located less than 50 metres to the west of the Splay, beyond the extent of previous drilling. The Unnamed 2 Vein is located approximately 15 metres to the east of Babi Vista.  These veins remain exploration targets and will continue to be tested as part of the ongoing drilling program.

The Company currently has six (6) surface core drills operating at Las Chispas. These drill rigs are completing additional in-fill and expansion holes for the Babi Vista Vein Splay, Granaditas veins, Babi Vista HW and FW veins, unnamed veins and El Muerto Zone. The Company also has three (3) drill rigs currently active at its El Picacho property near Las Chispas.

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is N. Eric Fier , CPG, P.Eng, and CEO for SilverCrest, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

ABOUT   SILVERCREST METALS   INC.
SilverCrest is a Canadian-based precious metals exploration and development company headquartered in Vancouver, BC , that is focused on new discoveries, value-added acquisitions, and targeting production in Mexico's historic precious metal districts. The Company's ongoing initiative is to increase its asset base by expanding current Resources and Reserves, acquiring and developing high-margin precious metal projects, and ultimately operating multiple silver-gold mines in the Americas. SilverCrest's principal focus is currently its Las Chispas Project or "Project", which is located approximately 180 kilometres northeast of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico . The Company has recently filed a Feasibility Study on the Project and is proceeding with mine construction. Production startup is targeted for mid-2022. The Company is led by a proven management team in all aspects of the precious metal mining sector, including taking projects through discovery, finance, on time and on budget construction, and production.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS  

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. These include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration programs at the Las Chispas Project and the startup of production at the Las Chispas Mine by mid-2022. Such forward looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the reliability of mineralization estimates, the conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of skilled labour; timing and amount of expenditures related to rehabilitation and drilling programs; and effects of regulation by governmental agencies. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors including: uncertainty as to the impact and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic; the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

N. Eric Fier , CPG, P.Eng
Chief Executive Officer
SilverCrest Metals Inc.

_______________________

i Feasibility Study: Refer to the technical report titled, "Technical Report & Feasibility Study on the Las Chispas Project, Sonora, Mexico", with an effective date January 4, 2021 available on the Company's website www.silvercrestmetals.com .

SilverCrest Metals Inc. Logo (CNW Group/SilverCrest Metals Inc.)

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SOURCE SilverCrest Metals Inc.

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SilverCrest Metals Inc.

SilverCrest Metals Inc.

SilverCrest Metals Inc involves in the exploration, development, and extraction of silver and other precious metals. The company's properties include Las Chispas, Cruz de Mayo, and other projects.

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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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