Gold set for weekly drop as oil price surge weighs on rate-cut hopes

Gold prices rose on Friday, supported by a weaker dollar and softer US Treasury yields, but were on track for a second consecutive weekly drop as rising energy prices dimmed prospects for near-term US interest rate cuts. Spot gold was up 0.8% at $5,118.75 per ounce, as of 0234 GMT. US gold futures for April delivery was unchanged at $5,123.30. “The dollar has eased from its highs which has opened the door for gold to make headway amid the ongoing geopolitical risks,” said Tim Waterer, KCM Trade chief market analyst. Bullion, however, has lost roughly 1% so far this week. Fears of inflation and questions about the Federal Reserve’s ability to cut rates if high oil prices persist is somewhat counteracting gold’s appeal, Waterer said.