Gold climbed to $1,169.30 (+0.27%) on Friday, but a relatively strong dollar and strong economic data intensified expectations for an imminent rate hike by the Federal Reserve thus limiting bullion's growth.

Physical demand failed to support the precious metal. Retailers in India (world's second biggest consumer) sold gold at reduced prices even during the festival season. Dealers were offering a discount of $8 to $12 an ounce this week, compared to $7 to $11 in the previous week.