In company news, Agnico-Eagle ( AEM ) last night forecast an 18% increase in gold production next year, rising to between 1.13 million ounces and 1.23 million ounces. Copper continues to back away from record highs, with the most heavily traded March contract down about $0.02 this morning to $4.11 as stockpiles grew and speculation returned that China will raise interest rates to help control inflation and keeping a lid on future demand. Gold likewise is down slightly today, falling $1.70 from yesterday's settlement at $1,386.20 an ounce.