Silver (SIH26) just did what many thought was unlikely in the near term. The precious metal crossed $80 for the first time ever in late December, notching a more than 140% gain year‑to‑date (YTD) and delivering its strongest annual performance since 1979 before pulling back as profit‑taking set in. Even after the correction, silver was still singled out as one of December’s top‑performing commodities (alongside platinum), reinforcing its role as a go‑to safe haven.
Geopolitical tension has only strengthened the narrative. On Jan. 5, news that U.S. forces had captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro helped send silver prices up 7.9%, as investors sought refuge in precious metals amid heightened uncertainty. Heading into 2026, silver’s long-term bullish trend remains intact, supported by concerns over dollar fiat debasement and resilient industrial demand.
