PRECIOUS-Gold rally pauses ahead of U.S. inflation data

Oct 13 (Reuters) - Gold prices were little changed amid a steady dollar on Friday, halting a five-day rally as investors wait for key U.S. inflation data for clues on the outlook for potential hikes in U.S. interest rates. FUNDAMENTALS * Spot gold was nearly unchanged at $1,293.76 an ounce at 0054 GMT after gaining for five straight sessions. * U.S. gold futures for December delivery were flat at $1,296.10 per ounce. * The dollar steadied in earl