World investment (the sum of implied net investment plus coins and medals) dipped marginally year-on-year to 282.2 million ounces, or 8, 776 metric tons.

FORBES: Silver Survey: Investment Key To Silver-Price Action In 2011; Mine Supply Hits Record High

Global fabrication demand slipped in 2011 by 1.5% to 876.6 million ounces, or 27, 265 metric tons, although the total was the second-highest level since 2000, the report said.

FORBES: Silver Survey: Investment Key To Silver-Price Action In 2011; Mine Supply Hits Record High

The IMF is one of the largest owners of gold in the world, holding 90.5 million ounces or 2, 814.1 metric tons of gold.

FORBES: Blame The IMF For The Big Drop In Gold