Mumbai, April 21 -- Gold futures slipped below the $4,800 per ounce mark as a firmer dollar near 98 dulled safe-haven demand, with investors turning cautious ahead of a potential second round of US-Iran negotiations. While hopes of diplomatic progress have slightly capped bullion's upside, lingering tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continue to inject uncertainty into the outlook. At the same time, the energy-led inflation surge has strengthened expectations of higher interest rates, raising the opportunity cost of holding gold. With the ceasefire deadline fast approaching and no clear extension in sight, market sentiment remains finely balanced, leaving gold highly sensitive to both geopolitical headlines and macroeconomic cues. MCX Jun...