Gold prices are s
teady and headed for their seventh consecutive weekly gain.
Bullion is buoyed by expectations of U.S. interest rate cuts and U.S. shutdown fears.
Spot gold is up ~0.1%, trading near $3,859 per ounce.
It recently hit an all-time high at ~$3,896.49.
Futures for December delivery rose ~0.4%.
Weak dollar and low yields support bullion
demand.
Demand for gold continues as a safe haven in volatile times.
Retail and central bank interest is adding to momentum.
Metals are now closely watched in India for inflation hedge interest.
Any surprise U.S. cue could push gold sharply further.