Gold Price Grinding Higher Ahead Of Data Deluge

New York (Dec 22)  Gold futures were higher Friday morning ahead of the Christmas break, as a compromise spending bill helped to avert a US government shutdown.

Gold was up USD1.20 at USD1272 an ounce, adding to recent gains in quiet trading.

Markets are expected to be subdued all day, with many traders getting a head start on the yuletide.

Those at their desks will be treated to reports on US personal income and spending, durable goods orders, new home sales and consumer sentiment.

Gold has crawled higher over the past two weeks despite surging US equities denting the precious metal's safe haven appeal.

In news from Europe, Catalan separatists have voted to leave Spain, putting the nation's future in question.

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