Silver Wheaton seems to have found a profit-generating strategy that's solid gold. The precious metals company's business model has enabled it to reap the benefits of high silver prices, while keeping its costs under control. The firm doesn't dig for its own metals. Instead, it pays mines an upfront fee in exchange for the right to purchase, at a fixed price, the silver they produce. As a result, the company is insulated from rising production costs, while still enjoying a windfall from high prices.

Profits skyrocketed 143% last year and operating cash flows jumped by 93%. Production is on the rise, too. Last year saw record-high production of 24 million silver-equivalent ounces. Over the next five years, the company expects that to grow 80%.