Silver prices hit record highs: Investors track $100 milestone; global risks push demand

TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL | Jan 23, 2026, 19:47 IST
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Silver prices
Silver prices
Silver prices are rising above $97 per ounce amid global political uncertainty, a weaker US dollar, and expectations of US Federal Reserve rate cuts. Safe-haven demand, industrial use, and gains in gold and platinum support the rally. Investors are closely watching whether silver can reach $100 per ounce as upcoming economic data and central bank moves influence markets.

Reasons behind

Silver has been rising due to several key factors. Global political uncertainty, especially events in Greenland and NATO discussions about Arctic security, has made investors turn to safe-haven assets like silver, gold, and platinum. At the same time, a weaker US dollar has made silver cheaper for buyers outside the US. Investors are also expecting the US Federal Reserve to lower interest rates later this year, which boosts demand for metals.

Geopolitical disputes

Political developments have helped push silver higher. US President Donald Trump reversed his stance on Greenland, and NATO said countries must strengthen Arctic security due to Russia and China. Denmark has maintained its sovereignty over Greenland, but unclear details have kept markets cautious.

Economy and dollar

The US economy shows steady growth, with strong consumer spending and a stable labor market. At the same time, the US dollar index fell to a two-week low. A weaker dollar makes dollar-priced metals cheaper for foreign buyers. This trend is helping silver prices rise further.

Federal Reserve

Markets now expect the US Federal Reserve to cut interest rates twice this year by 25 basis points each. Lower rates reduce returns on bonds and other yield-based assets, making metals like silver more attractive to investors. Combined with strong industrial demand, this is raising expectations that silver could reach $100 per ounce.

Global data

Investors will watch global economic indicators for further clues on silver prices. This includes retail sales in the UK, PMI data from France and Germany, EU business surveys, US consumer sentiment, and Japan central bank decisions. Changes in these numbers could affect how silver moves in the market.

Advice for investors

Given high price volatility, investors are advised to track global developments, the US dollar index, and industrial demand. Balancing portfolios and managing risk are important while silver prices move sharply. Investment choices will depend on personal risk tolerance, the time investors plan to hold assets, and expectations for interest rates and global economic growth.