Bullion futures advance on strong cues

Gold and silver futures strengthened, driven by strong global trends, as investors flocked to safe-haven assets amid expectations of lower US interest rates.

Gold futures for February delivery climbed Rs 948, or 0.7 per cent, to Rs 1,36,752 per 10 grams in a business turnover of 15,639 lots.

The precious metal had settled at Rs 1,35,804 per 10 grams on Thursday, up by Rs 357, or 0.3 per cent, from Wednesday’s closing of Rs 1,35,447 per 10 grams.

MCX was open only for the day session, and remained closed in the evening trade on Thursday, owing to the New Year holiday. Silver futures also traded higher on the commodities bourse.