Protesters stand outside the venue of Barrick Gold Corp's annual general meeting in Toronto May 6, 2008. Soaring gold prices and a timely decision to ditch its corporate hedge book paid off for Barrick in the first quarter as the world's top gold miner posted stronger earnings despite weaker production. Reuters Pictures 19 months ago

Protesters stand outside the venue of Barrick Gold Corp's annual general meeting in Toronto May 6, 2008. Soaring gold prices and a timely decision to ditch its corporate hedge book paid off for Barrick in the first quarter as the world's top gold miner posted stronger earnings despite weaker production.