Gold futures were up by Rs 44 to Rs 26,662 per 10 grams as speculators created fresh bets amid positive cues from global markets.

At the Multi Commodity Exchange, gold for delivery in far-month December was trading higher by Rs 44, or 0.17 per cent, to Rs 26,662 per 10 grams in a business turnover of one lot.

Similarly, the metal for delivery in October rose Rs 33 or 0.12 per cent to Rs 26,457 per 10 grams in a turnover of 147 lots.

Analysts attributed the rise in gold prices to a firm trend overseas after the dollar fell, raising demand for the safe-haven precious metals.

Meanwhile, gold was trading 0.4 per cent higher at $1,125.48 an ounce in Singapore.