When it comes to precious metals, gold is often highlighted as a safe haven. However, silver is also an excellent investment, one that is often underestimated. Less expensive than gold, it nevertheless offers numerous opportunities in terms of diversification and appreciation. So why and how should you invest in silver in Belgium?
1. Why invest in silver metal?
A precious and industrial metal
Unlike gold, silver has a dual purpose: it is both a financial asset and an industrial metal. It is used in key sectors such as electronics, solar energy, medicine, and even photography.
A more accessible investment than gold
Silver is much more affordable than gold, allowing investors to purchase larger quantities for the same budget.
High potential for added value
Historically, the gold/silver ratio has always fluctuated, and currently, silver appears to be undervalued relative to gold. In the event of increased industrial demand and rising inflation, its price could rise sharply.
2. Comparison with gold: advantages and disadvantages
| Criterion | Gold | Silver |
| Price | High | Accessible |
| Usage | Primarily investment | Heavy industrial use |
| VAT | Exemption (only on jewelry), up to €10,000 in capital gains on investment products. | Subject to VAT in Belgium |
| Liquidity | Very high | Good, but not as good as gold |
| Volatility | Low | Stronger, but also more opportunities |
Silver offers attractive growth potential but is more volatile than gold, which may be a disadvantage for investors seeking stability.
3. Taxation of money in Belgium
While investment gold now benefits from a specific capital gains regime with reference to the price at the end of 2025, silver metal remains subject to 21% VAT in Belgium when purchased in the form of bullion or physical coins, which may reduce its short-term profitability. Unlike gold, which is subject to a 10% capital gains tax on increases in value after December 31, 2025, after an annual allowance of €10,000, silver does not benefit from any special exemptions and remains subject to full VAT on physical purchases.
4. Different forms of investing money
Ingots and coins
- Silver bars come in different sizes (100 g, 1 kg, etc.).
- Certain coins, such as Silver Eagles or Maple Leafs, are highly prized by investors.
- Coins may be easier to resell than bullion, especially to collectors.
ETFs and financial products
- ETFs allow you to invest in silver without having to physically store it.
- Some silver futures contracts allow speculation on its price.
Paper money and certificates
- Some financial institutions offer certificates guaranteeing ownership of money without requiring physical storage.
- The disadvantage is that in the event of a major crisis, physical custody remains more secure.
5. Long-term valuation prospects
With the energy transition and the rise of technologies requiring silver, demand for this metal is expected to continue growing. Coupled with relatively limited supply (silver mines produce much less than gold mines), this could lead to a significant price increase in the coming years.
Silver metal: what you need to know to invest
Silver metal is an often overlooked investment that offers many advantages. Accessible, used in many industrial sectors, and potentially undervalued, it represents an attractive alternative to gold. However, the VAT applied in Belgium and its volatility must be taken into account before investing.
Would you like to buy or sell silver metal in Brussels? Contact us for an estimate and advice tailored to your investor profile!