CHICAGO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Gold futures on the COMEX division of the New York Mercantile Exchange fell on Friday as the U.S. dollar strengthened.
The most active gold contract for April delivery fell 6.00 U.S. dollars, or 0.28 percent, to close at 2,161.50 dollars per ounce.
After last week's sharp rally, gold needs some correction and consolidation.
Economic data released on Friday were mixed. The Federal Reserve reported that U.S. industrial production rose by 0.1 percent in February after a two-month drop.
The preliminary reading of University of Michigan consumer sentiment index slipped to 76.5 in March, barely below February's figure of 76.9.
The New York Fed's Empire State business-conditions index, a gauge of manufacturing activity in the state, fell 18.5 points in March to negative 20.9.
The Federal Reserve will convene its March monetary meeting on Tuesday and conclude on Wednesday with an announcement.
Silver for May delivery rose 32.10 cents, or 1.28 percent, to close at 25.381 dollars per ounce. Platinum for April delivery rose 7.80 dollars, or 0.83 percent, to close at 943.50 dollars per ounce. ■