Precious metals struggle as US dollar gains strength.

Gold and silver prices are down due to an appreciating US dollar index and rising US Treasury yields. Technical analysis also shows a near-term market top is in place for both metals. Progress on US debt talks and hawkish comments from Federal Reserve officials are also bearish elements for the metals. The US dollar index is higher and hitting a two-month high, while Nymex crude oil prices are higher and trading around $73.50 a barrel. The benchmark 10-year US Treasury note yield is presently fetching 3.74%.