Andean Precious Metals is up over 2% so far despite silver down 4.4%
The Silver Squeeze: A Looming Crisis in the Making
As the world races towards a green energy future and embraces cutting-edge technologies, a critical shortage of silver looms on the horizon. The facts are stark: new silver discoveries have become exceedingly rare, with only one or two out of 2,000 prospects evolving into operational mines. Even then, the journey from discovery to production spans an average of two decades, with many failing to turn a profit.
The demand for silver is skyrocketing. Solar energy alone consumes a staggering 700,000 ounces per gigawatt. The AI revolution, consuming up to 20 times more energy than typical internet searches, is driving unprecedented demand for data centers that will require energy resources we simply don't have. Meanwhile, silver's applications in zinc batteries, electric vehicles, aerospace, military technology, and electronics continue to outpace supply.
We're facing a structural deficit in silver, yet the market seems oblivious. Today's paper price manipulations mask the underlying fundamentals of an essential industrial metal caught in a perfect storm of surging demand and constrained supply. As traditional energy sources struggle to meet the demands of our technological future, silver's role becomes increasingly critical.
Investors would be wise to look beyond short-term market fluctuations. The silver shortage is not a distant possibility—it's an impending reality that demands immediate attention and strategic investment
Silver Academy endorses only 5 Silver miners that are pure silver mines (not silver as by product mines)
We have selected our picks based on the strength of:
Their balance sheets
Their Ore grades
Their Metallurgy
Their Management talent
Their Jurisdiction.
and most importantly their volume of ounces in the ground
Silver Academy’s top 5 picks
Andean Precious Metals: TSXV: APM, OTCQX: ANPMF
The company operates the largest commercial silver oxide processing plant in Bolivia's Cerro Rico region - the San Bartolomé facility. This strategic asset has produced over 65 million ounces of silver equivalents since 2009, demonstrating Andean's significant production capabilities.
Their robust balance sheet provides the company with financial flexibility and stability in a volatile industry.
The company follows a two-pronged growth strategy, focusing on organic growth in Bolivia and expansion through mergers and acquisitions in the wider Americas. This approach positions Andean for sustainable long-term growth and diversification.
Andean has successfully extended the life of the San Bartolomé mine from eight months to potentially 10 years or more, showcasing the company's operational expertise and ability to maximize asset value.
The company is committed to sustainable mining practices and community engagement, contributing approximately $75 million annually to the local economy through wages, royalties, and taxes. This dedication to social responsibility strengthens Andean's social license to operate.
By acquiring Golden Queen Mining Company (USA), Andean Precious Metals has taken a significant step towards achieving its vision of becoming a multi-jurisdictional mid-tier producer in the Americas, while positioning itself for sustainable long-term growth
Aya Gold & Silver: TSX: AYA, OTCQX: AYASF
Aya Gold & Silver Inc. is a leading silver producer, uniquely positioned as the only pure silver mining company listed on the TSX, with a strong operational base in Morocco. The company has recently reported record revenues of $13.7 million in Q2 2024, reflecting a remarkable 42% increase from the previous year, showcasing its robust growth trajectory and commitment to maximizing shareholder value. With ongoing expansions at the high-grade Zgounder Silver Mine, Aya is set to increase its processing capacity to 2,700 tonnes per day in 2024, further solidifying its market presence. Additionally, Aya's strategic exploration efforts have led to significant mineral resource estimates, including a recent discovery at the Boumadine project, which highlights the company's potential for future growth and profitability. Committed to sustainability, Aya Gold & Silver integrates responsible mining practices into its operations, ensuring long-term value creation for its stakeholders
Dolly Varden Silver: TSXV: DV, OTCQX: DOLLF
Dolly Varden Silver Corporation is a leading mineral exploration company making significant strides in the heart of British Columbia's Golden Triangle, focusing on its 100% held Kitsault Valley Project. This project boasts an impressive resource estimate of 64 million ounces of silver and 1 million ounces of gold, positioning Dolly Varden as a key player in the precious metals sector. The company is committed to sustainable mining practices while leveraging its rich history, including the past-producing Dolly Varden and Torbrit silver mines, to unlock further potential in the region. With a strong management team and recent discoveries enhancing its growth prospects, Dolly Varden Silver is poised for a bright future in the booming silver market. Investors can look forward to exciting developments as Dolly Varden continues to advance its projects and expand its resource base.
Outcrop Silver: TSXV: OCG, OTCQX: OCGSF
Outcrop Silver is advancing its flagship Santa Ana project in Colombia, one of the highest-grade primary silver deposits globally. The maiden resource estimate defines 24.2 million ounces of indicated silver equivalent at a grade of 614 grams per tonne and 13.5 million ounces of inferred silver equivalent at 435 grams per tonne. Recent metallurgical testing has yielded outstanding recoveries of 96.3% for silver and 98.5% for gold through a combination of gravimetric and flotation methods, significantly enhancing the project's economic potential.
With two active drill rigs, 2024 is a pivotal year for Outcrop Silver as the team explores new high-priority targets along the 17-kilometre permitted corridor, part of the project's extensive 30-kilometre strike mineralized trend. Looking ahead to 2025, Outcrop Silver remains focused on substantial resource growth and unlocking the full potential of this silver-rich region. The company’s success is underpinned by both impressive drilling results and strong community relationships, which are key to driving sustainable growth.
Outcrop Silver is uniquely positioned to capitalize on silver market dynamics, reinforced by Eric Sprott's increased investment to 19%, a clear vote of confidence in the project's potential and strategic direction.
Kuya Silver: CSE: KUYA, OTCQB: KUYAF
Kuya Silver is at the forefront of silver mining with its dual-track strategy, actively mining the high potential Bethania Silver Mine in Peru and developing the historic Silver Kings Project in Ontario. With robust mining and exploration programs underway, Kuya is poised to unlock significant value from its assets. Kuya Silver's experienced management team, led by industry veterans, is dedicated to maximizing shareholder value through strategic growth and operational excellence. As the demand for silver continues to rise, Kuya Silver stands ready to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the market.
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