950804

Gold close

firmer in HK

HONG KONG: Gold ended slightly firmer as late European short covering offset light Japanese selling in quiet trade, dealers said.

Bullion ended at US$384.30/80 an ounce, up from New York's US$384.10/384.60 close on Thursday.

"Players were seen more willing to take new positions after gold found good support at around US$384 today," said a local bullion house dealer.

Dealers expected overseas short-covering to boost the price towards US$386 if it breached US$385. Local gold rose HK$14 to close at HK$3,543 a tael.-Reuter