Gold futures finish lower on strong dollar

Gold futures finished lower on Friday, as the dollar surged on perceived safe haven bets amidst escalating Middle East tensions. Moreover, bets of elevated Central bank interest rates for longer time with the soaring energy prices also dulled the investment appeal. The yellow metal for the most active contract plunged about 9.6% this week, marking third straight weekly loss.Gold futures for April delivery down by $30.80 to 0.66% to settle at $4574.90 an ounce on the Comex division of the New York Mercantile. While, spot gold dipped by $157.60 or 3.39% to $4,492.42 an ounce.