The Opportunity Silver investments generally fall into three primary categories: Each of those categories, however, has downsides. Bullion offers direct correlation to silver prices but is costly to own. ETFs avoid much of that cost but don't generate income and typically don't give you direct control of physical metal. And while mining stocks generate income and sometimes even pay dividends, mine-specific challenges can make you lose money even when bullion prices are on the rise. Silver Wheaton, by contrast, is a silver streamer. Formed in 2004, the company offers financing to small mining companies in exchange for the right to purchase a share of their future production at specified prices, usually well below current market prices for the metal. With streaming arrangements around the world, Silver Wheaton has a well-diversified portfolio. What makes Silver Wheaton an especially promising investment opportunity is that it combines many of the most attractive elements of other silver-related investments.