since end-November, as recent strength in U.S. Treasury yields dented the non-yielding metal’s appeal. FUNDAMENTALS GMT, having touched its lowest since Nov. 30 at $1,765.35 earlier in the session. Prices have declined 3% so far this week. * Benchmark U.S. Treasury yields edged higher, having hit a near one-year peak earlier in the week. Higher yields increase the opportunity cost of holding bullion, which pays no interest. * The dollar was also set to mark a weekly gain, making gold expensive for holders of other currencies. * U.S. jobless claims unexpectedly increased last week, raising the possibility of a second straight month of tepid job