Gold prices fell sharply in the pre-market session as the U.S. dollar strengthened, making the metal more expensive for foreign buyers. Investors are also anxiously awaiting the release of minutes from the Federal Reserve's latest meeting, which are expected to provide insight into the central bank's appetite for further interest rate hikes. Recent hawkish commentary from Fed officials has reinforced expectations for tighter monetary policy to combat inflation, which increases the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding gold.