Silver climbed nearly 2% above $82 per ounce on Wednesday, recovering losses from the previous session as disappointing US economic data and deteriorating confidence in US assets boosted safe-haven demand. US retail sales data released Tuesday showed activity unexpectedly stalled in December, highlighting pressure on consumer spending. Investors are now focused on the delayed US January jobs report, with a weaker-than-expected reading likely to further support precious metals. Markets currently price in roughly 60 basis points of Federal Reserve easing by year-end. Safe-haven demand has also been fueled by a rotation away from dollar-denominated amid growing concerns over policy uncertainties in Washington. However, investors remain cautious about potential volatility in the metals market following recent swings, including a speculative rally and historic sell-off in the past two weeks.
