Gold prices attempted to snap a two-day skid Thursday morning, as investors watch for economic reports that could help provide insights about the impact of the coronavirus outbreak in the world's largest economy, the U.S.

Investors were keying on a report on jobless claims due at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, which may show their highest weekly rise on record, reflecting a swath of business closures and the cessation of normal personal activities as the federal and local governments attempt to curb the spread of the deadly illness.

Gold for April delivery on Comex was up $8.90, or 0.5%, to reach $1,642.30 an ounce after the precious commodity shed 1.7% on Wednesday. Among other metals Wednesday, May silver fell 9 cents, or 0.6%, to reach $14.755 an ounce, after rising 4.3% a day ago.

Source : Marketwatch