Gold could continue to trade sideways to higher in the first quarter, says Kitco Metals analyst.

Chief Judge Miranda Du held a Thursday hearing to review the contention from ranchers, environmentalists and Indigenous groups.

According to the company, Cortez is expected to be a top three revenue producer in the Royal Gold portfolio.

Traders now await the US Labor Department's nonfarm payrolls data on Friday.

Shares of Piedmont soared 15.4% by market close Wednesday.

There is some optimism in the market ahead of the release of minutes from the Fed's December meeting later in the day, says analyst.

Depending on the direction for the dollar resulting from the Fed's actions, gold is likely to fall in range between $1,620/oz $1,920/oz.

Industry insiders estimate the price at $3,300 per tonne by 2027, growing to $4,000 by 2031.