CHICAGO, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Gold futures on the COMEX division of the New York Mercantile Exchange probed briefly above 1,300 U.S. dollar per ounce early Friday but settled lower as safe-heaven demand eased.

The most active gold contract for December delivery went down 80 cents, or 0.06 percent, to settle at 1,291.60 dollars per ounce.

The terrorist attack in Barcelona, Spain and uncertainty over President Donald Trump's pro-business agenda had fueled safe-heaven demand and pushed up the gold prices.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average, during a volatile session, rallied from trading in the negative territory as reports emerged that U.S. President Trump decided to fire his controversial chief strategist Steve Bannon.

When equities rise, the gold futures usually fall.

Profit-taking also played a role in the gold's retreat, especially ahead of the weekend, said some analysts.

As for other precious metals, silver for September delivery fell 5.3 cents, or 0.31 percent, to close at 17 dollars per ounce. Platinum for October rose 70 cents, or 0.07 percent, to settle at 982.4 dollars per ounce. Enditem

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