Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of gold miner Agnico-Eagle Mines (NYSE: AEM) jumped 10% today after releasing a better-than-expected earnings report.

So what: Gold production rose slightly to 254,955 payable gold ounces in the first quarter as the company returned to strong operations. Total cash cost for gold was $594 per ounce helping drive earnings per share up to $0.59 per share after one-time items, topping the $0.37 analysts had expected.

Now what: After closing down a mine in 2011 this is the first sign that the company is getting back on its feet. Higher gold prices have also helped operations so if prices remain where they are I think the good results can continue. Management did raise its production outlook for the rest of the year, but at this pace I think even that could be exceeded without any unforeseen events.

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