61.   Some investors buy gold when inflation threatens to erode the value of other assets, such as bonds.

62.   Some investors buy gold when the value of other assets tumble.

63.   Some traders bought gold amid concern that the debate over the federal budget could force the Treasury to default on its debt.

64.   Some traders buy gold as a hedge against the damage inflation can inflict on other assets, such as bonds.

65.   That cooled demand from investors who buy gold as a hedge against inflation.

66.   The confusion began when Hashimoto said during a speech in New York that Japanese might sell U.S. debt and buy gold if the dollar-yen rate stays volatile.

67.   The drop led investors to sell dollars and buy gold, traders said.

68.   The drop followed a speech in New York by Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto in which he said Japan may sell U.S. Treasuries and buy gold.

69.   The increase was in line with expectations and shows there is little incentive to buy gold as a hedge against inflation, analysts said.

70.   The increase was in line with expectations and shows there is little incentive for investors to buy gold as a hedge against inflation, analysts said.