<prompt> Human: I have been sensing an overall hostility toward the idea of investing in silver and precious metals in general in this subreddit specifically. I saw someone suggest putting some money in silver and their answer got downvoted like crazy. Why is this the case? Or do you think silver has a place in your portfolio and actually invest in it yourself? Im curious to hear your thoughts on the matter.  <response>: I like silver. No, I love it. But unless you buy stock in a mining company or a company involved with the industry, I cant see it as anything other than pure speculation, especially if you buy physical to hold I do. I wouldnt own more than maybe 5 of a portfolio. The reason is, you cant really do much with it other than hope the price goes up, and if history is any indication, your money is better spent on other financial vehicles. 