Gold prices have tacked on to early gains and are trading solidly higher in late-morning dealings Tuesday. The yellow metal is boosted by safe-haven buying interest as the U.S. stock market sells off sharply in the wake of disappointing corporate earnings reports released earlier in the day. The solidly lower U.S. dollar index on the day is also working in favor of the gold market bulls. Technical buying is also evident as the near-term price trend in gold remains up. February Comex gold futures were last up $16.50 an ounce at $1,295.80.
