First published by Money Metals Exchange here: https://www.moneymetals.com/news/2022/01/10/lower-bid-ask-spreads-mean-higher-returns-002439

Demand for physical silver has been surging for most of the past two years. Buyers massively outnumber sellers. Mints and refiners who produce bullion coins, rounds and bars have struggled to keep up. The industry has certainly not been immune from labor shortages and the challenging operating environment faced by most businesses.