Silver Slides Over 20%
Silver tumbled as much as 21% to around $91 per ounce Friday, as aggressive profit-taking triggered a broader retreat across the precious metals complex. The white metal had surged to a record $122 Thursday, and despite the sharp correction, it remained on track for a monthly gain of more than 30%, underpinned by heightened economic and geopolitical uncertainty, a weaker US dollar, and tight physical market conditions fueled by record investment inflows and strong industrial demand. Geopolitical risks stayed elevated after President Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from countries supplying oil to Cuba, a move that also increases pressure on Mexico. Trump additionally urged Iran to enter nuclear negotiations, while Tehran warned of retaliation and pledged a swift response. On the monetary policy front, Trump said he had nominated former Fed governor Kevin Warsh as the next Fed chair, ending months of speculation over the future leadership of US monetary policy.