Gold prices were stable on Thursday after hitting their highest levels in more than a month, as softer U.S. core inflation data lifted expectations of interest rate cuts, although news of a ceasefire accord between Israel and Hamas capped further gains.

Gold futures rise 0.2% to $2,756.90 a troy ounce, and are set to end the week up 1.5%. The precious metal has managed to notch up gains despite headwinds from a stronger U.S. dollar, says Saxo Bank's Ole Hansen in a note.

Gold prices hovered near a five-week high on Friday and were set for a third straight week of gains, as U.S. inflation data released earlier this week revived expectations that the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates more than once this year.

Gold prices fell on Friday as investors resorted to booking profits after the yellow metal had surged to a one-month-high in the previous session. “Gold price (XAU/USD) retains its negative bias through the first half of the European session on Friday,