Gold hits fresh record above $2,300

The precious metal has chalked up multiple records over recent weeks as the US Federal Reserve indicates it is about to begin easing monetary policy -- which makes it more attractive to investors.

Its popularity as a safe haven in times of turmoil has also provided plenty of support, with traders fretting over the Middle East crisis and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

On Thursday, bullion touched $2,304.96 per ounce, according to Bloomberg News, after Fed boss Jerome Powell said it would likely be appropriate to cut borrowing costs "at some point this year".

Eyes are now on the release of US jobs figures due at the end of the week, with a weak reading likely to give the Fed room to cut rates sooner rather than later.