On other markets, precious metals futures were lower and energy prices fell.

Prices of precious metals futures fell, with gold settling $5 to $5.20 lower.

Industrial companies, large and small, use derivative contracts, for example in metal futures, to service their manufacturing needs.

It faces several inquiries on the sale of precious metals futures.

Precious metals futures surged in reaction to the dollar's fall.

Precious metals futures soared in reaction to the dollar's drop.

"Selling of metals futures by computer-directed funds also didn't help these markets."

Precious metals futures closed lower after the end of a rally, which had resulted from forced short covering.

Prices of precious metals futures were sharply lower yesterday, despite positive signals from elsewhere in the economy.

Precious metals futures dropped, and oil prices settled lower.