Experienced expert shares insights on precious metals with facts and expertise

Gold and silver have been at the center of a significant market shift, triggered by the weaponization of the US dollar in 2022 and supply constraints that emerged in 2025, respectively. While the frenzy witnessed in 2025 may not carry over into 2026, both metals are primed for continued growth in the coming year.

Robert Gottlieb, a seasoned expert in the precious metals sector, emphasized that the current rally is not a fleeting trend based on short-term price targets or speculative squeezes. Instead, it reflects a deeper, structural transformation in the role of gold and silver within global investment portfolios.

The turning point for gold came in 2022 when geopolitical tensions caused the US government to weaponize the dollar through sanctions on Russia. This move led emerging market central banks to increase their exposure to gold as a way to diversify their assets and reduce reliance on the dollar. Despite fluctuations in speculative capital, the sustained buying force from central banks continues to lend support to gold prices.

On the other hand, silver saw its turning point more recently, with investors awakening to the scarcity of readily available silver in global markets. An uptick in industrial demand over the past five years has depleted above-ground silver inventories to critical levels, creating liquidity issues in the market. The persistence of structural strains in the silver market suggests that the supply chain is under considerable pressure to meet growing demands.

Looking ahead to 2026, Gottlieb anticipates a more moderate growth trajectory for both gold and silver. While the explosive rallies of 2025 may not be replicated, the underlying structural factors supporting these metals remain intact. A 10%-15% increase in gold prices would still yield substantial returns, particularly for institutional investors reallocating assets to hard assets. Although silver may experience more pronounced sell-offs, the long-term upward trend is expected to persist.

Despite potential volatility in the near future, gold and silver have transitioned from being viewed as marginal hedges to essential components of diversified portfolios. Analysts and institutions have reevaluated traditional investment models, with allocations to hard assets such as gold and silver potentially increasing to 20% in some cases. This shift signifies a structural change in the perception of these metals as key elements in global asset allocation strategies.

In conclusion, the outlook for gold and silver in 2026 points towards continued growth driven by structural factors rather than speculative fervor. The resilience of these metals in the face of market fluctuations underscores their enduring appeal as valuable assets in a challenging economic landscape.