Gold prices slipped on Thursday as a stronger dollar pressured the metal, with investors awaiting key US inflation data for further guidance on the Federal Reserve's rate outlook. Spot gold dipped 0.1 per cent to $4,089.21 per ounce by 0502 GMT, while US gold futures for December delivery rose 1 per cent to $4,104.70. The dollar index gained 0.2 per cent, making bullion less attractive to holders of other currencies. Analysts said the decline reflected a normal correction after recent gains, though gold remained supported by expectations of lower interest rates. Markets have nearly priced in a 25-basis-point rate cut at next week's Fed meeting. Gold has surged about 56 per cent this year, hitting a record $4,381.21 on Monday, driven by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and sustained central bank buying. Elsewhere, spot silver rose 0.1 per cent to $48.56 per ounce, platinum slipped 1 per cent to $1,605.66, and palladium fell 1.7 per cent to $1,433.91. The US Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) report, delayed due to the government shutdown, is due Friday and expected to show core inflation steady at 3.1 per cent in September. Attribution: Reuters
