Gold prices are down today primarily due to a strengthening U.S. dollar, which makes the dollar-denominated metal more expensive for holders of other currencies. This dollar strength was partly influenced by the Bank of Japan's decision to keep its interest rates unchanged, which weakened the yen. Additionally, some profit-taking is contributing to the decline after recent price gains. The market continues to weigh the outlook for U.S. interest rates ahead of the Federal Reserve's September meeting.