Silver prices reached a multi-month high on Wednesday before retreating, as traders eye the year’s high of $32.52. This price action comes in the wake of aggressive monetary easing by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), which has sent ripples through global financial markets.
At 12:51 GMT, XAG/USD is trading $31.83, down $0.27 or -0.83%.
The precious metal’s upward momentum has slowed near the crucial $32.52 level. A breakout above this point could pave the way for a test of the multi-year high at $34.35. On the downside, support levels to watch include the former top at $31.76, followed by $30.19, and the 50-day moving average at $29.03.
The PBOC’s latest round of stimulus measures, including cuts to the reserve requirement ratio and lower interest rates, has ignited a rally in metals and mining stocks. The SPDR S&P Metals & Mining ETF (XME) surged 4.22% on Tuesday, marking its strongest rally of 2024. This reflects heightened optimism for Chinese demand, particularly for industrial metals crucial to infrastructure and construction.
The central bank’s actions have sparked a broader rally in commodity markets. Copper prices rose over 4%, while gold hit fresh record highs. The Global X Copper Miners ETF (COPX) jumped 7.12%, and the Global X Silver Miners ETF (SIL) gained 5.01%, underscoring the renewed optimism in the sector.
In the short term, the PBOC’s easing is likely to continue driving bullish sentiment in precious metals, including silver. Increased liquidity in the Chinese economy is expected to boost demand for industrial metals, supporting prices.
Long-term, the impact on silver prices will depend on the sustainability of China’s economic recovery. While the stimulus measures are positive for demand, structural challenges in the Chinese economy and ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions could introduce volatility.
The outlook for silver appears bullish in the near term. The combination of PBOC easing, increased industrial demand, and silver’s dual role as both a precious and industrial metal positions it well for potential gains. Traders should watch for a potential breakout above $32.52, which could signal a move towards the multi-year high. However, caution is warranted as the market digests the full implications of China’s monetary policy shifts.
James is a Florida-based technical analyst, market researcher, educator and trader with 35+ years of experience. He is an expert in the area of patterns, price and time analysis as it applies to futures, Forex, and stocks.