China's Silver Game: Export Curbs Send Prices Soaring, World Reacts

• China implemented strict controls on silver exports, effective this week, causing immediate global market impact.
• The strategic move, similar to rare earth metals, led to silver prices soaring near record levels and buyers offering significant premiums.
• Elon Musk emphasized silver's critical role in technology; China's Commerce Ministry had announced these regulations in October.
• This decision is part of a broader strategy, with China also increasing restrictions on tungsten and antimony exports from 2026.
• Rising silver and gold prices, alongside a weakening US Dollar Index, indicate investor shift and a "flashing warning" for the US economy.

Why It Matters: China's strategic silver export controls are driving global prices up, reflecting major geopolitical and economic shifts.