Precious metals stayed pressured on Thursday morning in Asia as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said higher energy prices will push up overall inflation. The Fed held interest rates steady at its March meeting on Wednesday, maintaining the benchmark Federal Funds Rate in a target range of 3.5% to 3.75%. Meanwhile, escalating tensions in the Middle East is maintaining safe-haven flows, benefiting the precious metals. Iran and Israel traded strikes on key energy facilities in the Middle East. Currently, the yellow metal is quoting under $5k mark at $4857.20 an ounce, down 0.85% on the day. Meanwhile, silver futures are trading at around 76 mark.