Gold Holds Ground Ahead of Crucial US Payrolls Data
Gold prices have held steady at $4,469.26 per ounce as of 0633 GMT on Friday, poised for a modest weekly gain. Traders' attention is focused on key US payrolls data, which could influence the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision.
The market has scaled back expectations for a September rate hike after Fed Governor Christopher Waller said he would support leaving rates unchanged if data continued to show inflation pressures moderating.
US gold futures for December delivery fell 0.5% to $4,515.70. Traders are pricing in an about 50% chance of a Fed rate hike later this month, according to the CME FedWatch Tool.
The US nonfarm payrolls report is due at 1230 GMT. Weak figures and rising unemployment could weaken the case for a rate hike, potentially allowing gold to recover.