Silver Soars Beyond $90: Record Highs Amid Safe-Haven Demand Surge
Silver prices soared past the $90 per ounce mark on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, setting new record highs. Investors are increasingly seeking safe-haven exposure due to escalating geopolitical tensions and concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve. The precious metal surged by over 6% in a single day, marking a 29% increase year-to-date. This builds on an impressive 141% gain in 2025, the best performance since 1979.
Driving Factors Behind the Precious Metals Rally
Market observers attribute the rally in precious metals to several factors. These include:
- Geopolitical tensions
- Fiscal debt concerns
- Questions about Fed independence following a criminal probe linked to Chair Powell’s testimony
Beyond these macro concerns, silver continues to benefit from a structurally tight supply. The market has been in a multi-year deficit, and liquidity is constrained in London.
Industrial Demand and Supply Constraints
Industrial demand, spurred by the global transition to clean energy technologies and the massive expansion of artificial intelligence, has also supported the bullish outlook. These sectors require significant amounts of silver for data centers and electronics manufacturing. China’s export controls on silver, implemented in December, have further tightened physical supply. This has led to premiums in Shanghai reaching approximately $10 above spot prices.
Future Predictions for Silver and Gold
Investment managers at Jupiter Asset Management suggest it is “absolutely possible” for silver to surpass the $100 per ounce milestone this year. They also predict potential for gold to reach $5,000 per ounce. The metals’ continued strength reflects what analysts describe as “resource nationalism,” with major powers attempting to gain leverage through control of critical resources.
Source: CNN Business