Silver now finds itself at the center of a geopolitical wrestling match over critical elements. In what is clearly an effort to control the market, China recently announced export controls on silver. This could exacerbate global supply shortages already creating a significant silver squeeze. Under the policy that took effect on January 1st, only large, licensed, state-approved companies with an annual silver production capacity of 80 tonnes and a credit line exceeding $30 million can export silver. According to analysts, the rules will lock hundreds of small and mid-sized exporters out of the system. These smaller ... (full story)