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Markets eye Fed rate cut as gold stays near all-time high
Gold prices rose on Friday, holding close to record highs hit earlier this week, as signs of a weakening U.S. labor market reinforced expectations the Federal Reserve will deliver its first rate cut of the year next week. Spot gold was up 0.4% at $3,647.55 per ounce, as of 11:00 a.m. EDT (1500 GMT), close to Tuesday's all-time high of $3,673.95. The metal has gained 1.7% so far this week and is poised for a fourth consecutive weekly advance. U.S. gold futures for December delivery were up 0.3% at $3,685.60. "Weaker employment and spotty inflation... priced in with the Fed having to cut rates is pushing metals ... (full story)