Gold prices fell as the dollar strengthened, leading to profit-taking after a five-day rally. The US government shutdown delayed key economic data, prompting investors to pay more attention to private reports. Gold has surged 47% this year, fueled by central-bank buying and ETF holdings, with more rate cuts expected by the Fed.

Traders are anticipating two more rate cuts this year to support a weakening labor market, which could boost gold prices. Without official data due to the shutdown, economists and policymakers are relying on private reports for insights. Spot gold dropped to $ as the dollar index rose. Silver and palladium declined, while platinum remained steady.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Gold Drops as Dollar Gains, Investors Take Profits After Rally