The cost of gold is rising against the backdrop of statistical data from the U.S.. So, in July, the ISM index in the U.S. service sector grew more strongly than in the previous month, helped by a substantial increase in orders. The indicator rose to 52.6 versus 52.1 in June. Economists expected the index would remain unchanged, while the analysts' estimates ranged from 50.5 to 53.

Business activity and new orders showed an increase, while the employment component fell for the first time in December 2011, reaching 49.3 versus 52.3 in June.

Recall that was published August 1 indicator of activity in the manufacturing sector, which said the second month of the fall against the backdrop of slowing global economic growth.

The cost of the August gold futures on the COMEX today rose to 1602.9 dollars per ounce.