# Silver ETFs: Risk-Takers vs. Purists

> Risk-takers pick SLVP for silver mining gains; purists choose SLV for physical silver.
- Title: Silver ETFs: Risk-Takers vs. Purists · The Motley Fool
- Summary: Risk-takers pick SLVP for silver mining gains; purists choose SLV for physical silver. Investors choosing between SLVP and SLV ETFs: SLVP offers higher…
- Keywords: slvp, slv, silver, etf, mining, dividend, silver bullion, silver mining companies, finance, money, ETFs, Risk-Takers
- Source: The Motley Fool — https://fool.com/coverage/etfs/2026/10/19/the-silver-dilemma-why-risk-takers-choose-slvp-and-purists-choose-slv
- Author: Jake Lerch
- Published: 2026-10-19T12:50:02+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: slvp, slv, silver, etf, mining, dividend, silver bullion, silver mining companies, finance, money
## Silver ETFs Overview
iShares Silver Trust (SLV) tracks physical silver bullion, while iShares MSCI Global Silver and Metals Miners ETF (SLVP) tracks silver-mining companies.
## Key Differences
SLV has a higher expense ratio of 0.5% versus SLVP's 0.39%, with SLVP paying a 2% dividend yield and SLV offering none.
## Performance Metrics
Over five years, SLVP delivered 166% total return with a 21.6% CAGR, while SLV achieved 140% with a 19.1% CAGR.
## Investment Strategy
SLV holds 100% physical silver bullion, while SLVP invests in mining companies like Hecla Mining, Indust Penoles, and First Majestic Silver.
## Which Fund Fits You?
Risk-tolerant investors prefer SLVP for higher returns and dividends; purists choose SLV for direct physical silver exposure.
## Key takeaway

Investors choosing between SLVP and SLV ETFs: SLVP offers higher returns and dividends for risk-takers, while SLV provides direct physical silver exposure.