The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday edition that gold miners are on track to deliver stellar third-quarter earnings, fuelled by a record rally in bullion prices, with investors watching for updates from top producers Newmont and Barrick Mining. A Reuters dispatch to The Globe says analysts expect the two miners to post a combined profit of nearly $3-billion for the period, more than double last year's $1.4-billion (all figures U.S.). Prices averaged $3,574.95 per ounce in the July-to-September quarter, up 43.5 per cent year-on-year. Bullion prices surged past $4,000 per ounce for the first time ever this month, with some analysts now forecasting a run to the $5,000 mark next year. Precious metal miners are also benefiting from stable production, and contained cost pressures, Stifel analysts said, flagging rising contractor fees, royalties and taxes linked to gold prices as potential challenges. Higher profits are also encouraging miners to ramp up shareholder returns. Newmont reports results on Thursday, followed by Agnico Eagle on Oct. 29, Kinross on Nov. 4 and Barrick on Nov. 10. Barrick's Mark Bristow made a surprise exit despite earlier pledges to stay on, raising questions about its strategic direction.