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iShares Silver Trust vs abrdn Physical Silver Shares ETF
VS
Comparative Analysis
SIVR wins due to its lower expense ratio and superior long-term trailing returns, despite both ETFs showing similar current technical weakness. SIVR offers a more cost-effective way to gain exposure to silver, which is currently trading near the lower end of its 52-week range. While both SLV and SIVR are experiencing technical headwinds with RSI and MACD indicating downward momentum, SIVR's lower fees translate to better net returns for investors over time. The choice between these two silver ETFs hinges on long-term cost efficiency and historical performance, where SIVR demonstrates a slight edge. Investors seeking silver exposure should consider SIVR for its more favorable cost structure and stronger long-term track record.
Key Differentiator
The most significant differentiator between SLV and SIVR is their expense ratio and resulting long-term performance. SIVR's expense ratio of 0.003 is substantially lower than SLV's 0.05, translating to a cost savings of $20 per $10,000 invested annually. This cost advantage is reflected in SIVR's superior trailing returns across multiple timeframes, particularly over 3, 5, and 10 years. While both ETFs track silver and share similar technical characteristics, SIVR's lower fees make it a more efficient vehicle for long-term silver investment.
Joint Outlook
The outlook for both SLV and SIVR is heavily dependent on the future price movements of silver. Currently, both ETFs are trading with weak technical indicators, suggesting potential for continued downside or sideways movement in the near term. However, their proximity to 52-week lows could signal a bottoming process if macroeconomic conditions shift favorably for precious metals, such as a weakening US dollar or rising inflation concerns. A sustained recovery in silver prices would see both ETFs gain, with SIVR likely to provide superior net returns due to its lower fees. The next 6 to 12 months could present opportunities for investors who believe silver is positioned for a rebound.
Price Analysis Comparison
Asset Metrics
| Metric | SLV | SIVR |
|---|---|---|
| 52 Week Range | $41.70 - $109.83 | $43.85 - $115.26 |
| Prev. Close | $53.45 | $56.18 |
| Market Cap | 23.49B | N/A |
| 24h Volume | 13.59M | 2.68M |
SIVR is currently trading at $57.60, closer to its 52-week low of $43.85 than SLV's $54.78 is to its low of $41.70. This suggests SIVR is relatively cheaper in its current trading range. Both ETFs are significantly below their 52-week highs, with SLV at $109.83 and SIVR at $115.26, indicating substantial room for recovery. The current price action for both is weak, with prices below their 50-day and 200-day moving averages. SIVR's price is also below its 20-day EMA, mirroring SLV's technical weakness. Both ETFs are trading at a discount to their 52-week highs, presenting a potential value opportunity for silver exposure.
Market Performance
| Metric | SLV | SIVR |
|---|---|---|
| Volatility (30D) | 43.95% | 44.18% |
| 24h Range | $54.75 - $55.25 | $57.59 - $58.08 |
| Market Strength (RSI) | 33.0 | 33.1 |
| Trend (SMA 50) | Bearish | Bearish |
Both assets exhibit similar volatility levels (~44%). Market momentum is currently Bearish for both. RSI levels indicate oversold conditions, potentially signaling a reversal.
Technical Indicators
| Indicator | SLV | SIVR |
|---|---|---|
| RSI (14) | 32.98 | 33.09 |
| 50-Day MA | $57.94 | $60.92 |
| 200-Day MA | $65.77 | $69.11 |
Both SLV and SIVR are exhibiting significant technical weakness, trading well below their 50-day and 200-day moving averages. SLV's 50-day SMA is $57.94 and its 200-day SMA is $65.77, while SIVR's are $60.92 and $69.11 respectively. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for both is hovering around 33, indicating oversold conditions but also persistent selling pressure. The MACD is negative for both, suggesting bearish momentum. Stochastic oscillators are also low, around 23.7, reinforcing the weak technical picture. Neither ETF shows signs of an immediate trend reversal based on these indicators.
AI Analyst Sentiment
Technical rating: based on current price action versus moving averages and momentum. This measures short-term chart trend, not analyst opinion or company fundamentals.
SLV
Technical Score: 25/100
SIVR
Technical Score: 25/100
Why the ratings differ: SLV and SIVR currently score poorly on technical momentum (price sitting below key moving averages), while the analyst view below reflects forward-looking estimates of the business. A stock can be technically weak and still carry bullish analyst targets: the two measure different things over different horizons.
Analyst ratings and median targets are not provided for either SLV or SIVR, as they are commodity ETFs rather than individual stocks. Market sentiment for these ETFs is therefore inferred from their price action and technical indicators. The current technical readings, including low RSI and negative MACD, suggest a bearish sentiment in the short term. However, their position closer to 52-week lows could attract value-oriented investors if silver prices stabilize or rebound. The lack of analyst coverage means sentiment is primarily driven by commodity market dynamics and broader macroeconomic factors affecting precious metals.Risk Stratification
| Metric | SLV | SIVR |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpe Ratio | 0.88 | 0.88 |
The primary risk for both SLV and SIVR is the volatility of the underlying silver price. A significant drop in silver prices, driven by factors such as a strengthening US dollar, rising real interest rates, or reduced industrial demand, would directly impact the value of both ETFs. SLV, with its higher expense ratio, carries an additional risk of underperforming SIVR over the long term due to increased costs. Also, both ETFs are trading significantly below their 52-week highs, indicating substantial price risk and potential for further declines if market conditions do not improve. Geopolitical instability or shifts in central bank policies could also introduce volatility.
Comparative ProTips
- Prioritize SIVR for its lower expense ratio, which directly enhances long-term net returns on silver investments.
- Monitor silver's price action relative to its 52-week range; both ETFs are currently near lows, presenting potential value if the commodity rebounds.
- Given the similar technical weakness in both ETFs, consider dollar-cost averaging into SIVR to mitigate timing risk and benefit from potential silver price appreciation.
Monte Carlo Projection (10yr)
Actionable Trade Plans
Compare entry, exit, and risk management levels for both assets
Select Your Trade Bias
Risk Tolerance
Conservative
3%
Aggressive
Portfolio Value
$
✎
Position Size: $200 - $300 per asset
SLV
Current: $54.78
ENTRY ZONES
Conservative
$55.88
Aggressive
$54.78
RISK MANAGEMENT
STOP LOSS
$57.55
MAX LOSS
-3%
Volatility-Adjusted Stop Loss
Calculated based on volatility and technical support levels.
Profit Targets (Based on Conservative)
+5%
$53.08
+10%
$50.29
+15%
$47.49
SIVR
Current: $57.60
ENTRY ZONES
Conservative
$58.75
Aggressive
$57.60
RISK MANAGEMENT
STOP LOSS
$60.51
MAX LOSS
-3%
Volatility-Adjusted Stop Loss
Calculated based on volatility and technical support levels.
Profit Targets (Based on Conservative)
+5%
$55.81
+10%
$52.88
+15%
$49.94
Calculate Your Trade
Disclaimer
This comparison involves assets with varying risk profiles. The content is for educational purposes only. Identifying the stronger asset is based on relative strength (RS) and technical convergence. Past correlation does not guarantee future lockstep movement. Trading involves risk of loss. Note: The AI favored SIVR based on relative valuation. This is valid for the specified timeframe only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is a better buy, SLV or SIVR?+
SIVR is a better buy due to its lower expense ratio (0.003% vs 0.05%) and superior long-term trailing returns. While both ETFs show similar current technical weakness, SIVR's cost efficiency provides a long-term advantage.
What are the key risks for SLV vs SIVR?+
The primary risk for both is the volatility of silver prices. SLV carries an additional risk of underperformance due to its higher expense ratio compared to SIVR.
How do SLV and SIVR compare on fees?+
SIVR has a significantly lower expense ratio at 0.003%, costing $30 per $10,000 invested annually, compared to SLV's 0.05%, costing $50 per $10,000 invested annually.
What are the long-term performance differences between SLV and SIVR?+
SIVR has outperformed SLV across 3-year (4.16% vs 4.13%), 5-year (23.55% vs 23.30%), and 10-year (13.79% vs 13.56%) trailing return periods, largely due to its lower expense ratio.
Are SLV or SIVR currently showing strong technical signals?+
No, both ETFs are displaying weak technical signals, with low RSI (around 33), negative MACD, and prices well below their key moving averages, indicating bearish momentum.
What is the net asset size of SLV and SIVR?+
SLV has substantially larger net assets of $34.68 billion compared to SIVR's $4.88 billion. This indicates greater market liquidity and investor interest in SLV.
How do the inception dates of SLV and SIVR compare?+
SLV, launched on April 21, 2006, is older than SIVR, which was launched on July 24, 2009. This means SLV has a longer track record of performance data.