<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-prices-steady-as-market-awaits-united-states-employment-report-253433">Gold prices</a> rose to their highest in more than two months on Monday in thin year-end trading as the dollar dipped and US&nbsp;military strikes in the Middle East drove investors towards the safe-haven metal.

Spot gold rose 0.3 per cent&nbsp;to $1,514.94 per ounce by 0359 GMT. Earlier in the session, prices hit their highest since October&nbsp;25 at $1,515.80. US&nbsp;gold futures were unchanged at $1,518.

"We are looking at pre-positioning for next year and a rebalancing of portfolios ahead of year-end, overlaid with very low liquidity levels, that are essentially exacerbating the volatility and making these moves appear exaggerated," said Ilya Spivak, a senior currency strategist at DailyFx.

Gold is receiving modest support from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-isis-terrorists-killed-in-us-airstrikes-in-iraq-175533">US&nbsp;airstrikes</a> in the middle east, Spivak added.

The US&nbsp;military on Sunday carried out successful airstrikes in Iraq and Syria against an Iran-backed militia group, spurring market uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.

Gold is considered a safe investment in times of geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Further helping gold, the dollar slipped against a basket of rivals, making gold cheaper for holders of other currencies.

Gold prices have risen about 18 per cent this year and we're on track for its best year since 2010, mainly due to the 17-month-long Sino-US&nbsp;tariff war and its impact on global economic growth.

"But from a pure macro and risk perspective, it currently makes little sense for gold to be trading above $1,500/oz. The surging equity market and higher gold prices seldom, if ever, exist in the same time frame and simultaneously moving higher," said Stephen Innes, a market strategist at AxiTrader in a note.

On the trade front, China's Commerce Ministry on Sunday said it has "proactively dealt with" trade frictions with US&nbsp;this year.

Market participants, however, remained wary even after Washington and Beijing have made progress in their tariff dispute and official ratification of an initial trade deal was close.

Indicative of investor sentiment, holdings of the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, SPDR Gold Trust, rose 0.1 per cent&nbsp;to 893.25 tonnes on Friday, the highest since November 29.

Among other precious metals, silver rose 0.9 per cent&nbsp;to$17.92 per ounce, while platinum climbed 0.2 per cent&nbsp;to $946.62. Palladium was flat at $1,905.28 per ounce.

Gold prices rose to their highest in more than two months on Monday in thin year-end trading as the dollar dipped and US military strikes in the Middle East drove investors towards the safe-haven metal.

Gold prices rose to their highest in more than two months on Monday in thin year-end trading as the dollar dipped and US military strikes in the Middle East drove investors towards the safe-haven metal. Spot gold rose 0.3 per cent to $1,514.94 per ounce by 0359 GMT. Earlier in the session, prices hit their highest since October 25 at $1,515.80. US gold futures were unchanged at $1,518. "We are looking at pre-positioning for next year and a rebalancing of portfolios ahead of year-end, overlaid with very low liquidity levels, that are essentially exacerbating the volatility and making these moves appear exaggerated," said Ilya Spivak, a senior currency strategist at DailyFx. Gold is receiving modest support from the US airstrikes in the middle east, Spivak added. The US military on Sunday carried out successful airstrikes in Iraq and Syria against an Iran-backed militia group, spurring market uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Gold is considered a safe investment in times of geopolitical and economic uncertainty. Further helping gold, the dollar slipped against a basket of rivals, making gold cheaper for holders of other currencies. Gold prices have risen about 18 per cent this year and we're on track for its best year since 2010, mainly due to the 17-month-long Sino-US tariff war and its impact on global economic growth. "But from a pure macro and risk perspective, it currently makes little sense for gold to be trading above $1,500/oz. The surging equity market and higher gold prices seldom, if ever, exist in the same time frame and simultaneously moving higher," said Stephen Innes, a market strategist at AxiTrader in a note. On the trade front, China's Commerce Ministry on Sunday said it has "proactively dealt with" trade frictions with US this year. Market participants, however, remained wary even after Washington and Beijing have made progress in their tariff dispute and official ratification of an initial trade deal was close. Indicative of investor sentiment, holdings of the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, SPDR Gold Trust, rose 0.1 per cent to 893.25 tonnes on Friday, the highest since November 29. Among other precious metals, silver rose 0.9 per cent to$17.92 per ounce, while platinum climbed 0.2 per cent to $946.62. Palladium was flat at $1,905.28 per ounce.

Gold hits two-month peak on dollar weakness, US strikes

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-prices-steady-as-market-awaits-united-states-employment-report-253433">Gold</a> prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US&nbsp;Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets.

Spot gold was up 0.3 per cent&nbsp;at $1,476.50 an ounce by 1015 GMT and US&nbsp;gold futures rose 0.2 per cent to $1,477.

"The US&nbsp;senate passing the Hong Kong democracy bill is raising the further risk of a trade deal running into problems and it's causing some renewed risk-off in the markets," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/gold-locked-below-1300-as-market-braces-for-fed-meeting-143852">Saxo Bank </a>commodity strategist Ole Hansen.

"We see stocks trading weaker, bond yields moving lower and gold is ticking higher."

The US&nbsp;Senate passed two bills backing human rights in Hong Kong and banning the export of certain munitions to the region's police forces. China condemned the move and called for Washington to stop meddling in its internal affairs.

European stocks steered away from a recent peak and US&nbsp;10-year bond yields slipped to their lowest in nearly three weeks, also pressured by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports if a trade deal cannot be reached with Beijing.&nbsp;

Investor eyes will also be on minutes from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nasdaq-ends-at-record-high-dollar-falls-as-us-fed-signals-possible-rate-cut-234814">US&nbsp;Federal Reserve'</a>s October policy meeting, due at 1900 GMT, for additional cues on the monetary policy outlook.

The US&nbsp;central bank cut interest rates three times this year to help to sustain US&nbsp;growth but last month signalled that there would be no further cuts unless the economy takes a turn for the worse.

"The market is pricing in one cut over the next 12 months and that will change very quickly on failure to reach a (trade) deal," Saxo Bank's Hansen added.

Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost for holding non-yielding bullion.

Spot gold could rise into a range of $1,480-$1,485 an ounce, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao.

Elsewhere, silver was flat at $17.14, platinum was down 0.1 per cent at&nbsp;$909.14 and palladium was little changed at $1,764.50.

Palladium prices could continue to firm on supply issues, and $2,000 an ounce is a likely scenario for the autocatalyst metal next year, said Ross Norman, a London-based independent analyst.

The metal hit a record high of $1,824.50 on October&nbsp;30, buoyed by a sustained supply deficit.

Gold prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets.

Gold prices rose to their highest in nearly two weeks on Wednesday as US Senate measures on Hong Kong posed a potential roadblock for a trade deal between the United States and China, denting appeal for riskier assets. Spot gold was up 0.3 per cent at $1,476.50 an ounce by 1015 GMT and US gold futures rose 0.2 per cent to $1,477. "The US senate passing the Hong Kong democracy bill is raising the further risk of a trade deal running into problems and it's causing some renewed risk-off in the markets," said Saxo Bank commodity strategist Ole Hansen. "We see stocks trading weaker, bond yields moving lower and gold is ticking higher." The US Senate passed two bills backing human rights in Hong Kong and banning the export of certain munitions to the region's police forces. China condemned the move and called for Washington to stop meddling in its internal affairs. European stocks steered away from a recent peak and US 10-year bond yields slipped to their lowest in nearly three weeks, also pressured by US President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs on Chinese imports if a trade deal cannot be reached with Beijing. Investor eyes will also be on minutes from the US Federal Reserve's October policy meeting, due at 1900 GMT, for additional cues on the monetary policy outlook. The US central bank cut interest rates three times this year to help to sustain US growth but last month signalled that there would be no further cuts unless the economy takes a turn for the worse. "The market is pricing in one cut over the next 12 months and that will change very quickly on failure to reach a (trade) deal," Saxo Bank's Hansen added. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost for holding non-yielding bullion. Spot gold could rise into a range of $1,480-$1,485 an ounce, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Elsewhere, silver was flat at $17.14, platinum was down 0.1 per cent at $909.14 and palladium was little changed at $1,764.50. Palladium prices could continue to firm on supply issues, and $2,000 an ounce is a likely scenario for the autocatalyst metal next year, said Ross Norman, a London-based independent analyst. The metal hit a record high of $1,824.50 on October 30, buoyed by a sustained supply deficit.

Gold gains as souring US-China relations dent risk appetite

Gold&nbsp;prices scaled&nbsp;one-week&nbsp;highs on Thursday, holding ground above $1,500 an ounce, as investors flocked to the safety of bullion following contradictory reports about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-talks-to-resume-thursday-white-house-254346">US-China&nbsp;trade&nbsp;talks.</a>

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;gained 0.1 per cent&nbsp;to $1,506.78 per ounce as of 0724 GMT, having notched a&nbsp;peak&nbsp;of $1,516.77 early in the session, its highest since October&nbsp;3. US&nbsp;gold&nbsp;futures dropped 0.1 per cent&nbsp;to $1,511.80.

"Gold&nbsp;is holding strong above $1,500 because of healthy inflows by ETFs (exchange-traded funds). If the US-China&nbsp;trade&nbsp;talks fail once again,&nbsp;gold&nbsp;prices could rally," said Jigar Trivedi, a commodities analyst at Mumbai-based Anand Rathi Shares &amp; Stock Brokers.

"Prices are not falling, because of strong investment demand and fundamental factors. $1,490 is the current support, and if prices drop below this, there could be an extended fall till $1,460."

A report from the New York Times said Washington would soon issue licences permitting some US&nbsp;firms to supply non-sensitive goods to China's Huawei Technologies.

A report by Bloomberg, saying the White House was looking at rolling out a currency pact with China, raised hopes of a partial deal and helped to lift risk assets.

The South China Morning Post had reported earlier in the session that a Chinese delegation was planning to leave Washington after just a day of minister-level meetings, instead of Friday as planned, sending Asian stocks toppling. However, risk sentiment has recovered slightly since.

Gold&nbsp;is often used by investors as a hedge against political and financial uncertainty.

"Gold&nbsp;ETF holdings are at three-year highs and lots of central banks are also buying, which is keeping prices supported," said Argonaut Securities analyst Helen Lau, adding that some volatility could be expected in the&nbsp;gold&nbsp;market.

Indicative of investor interest, holdings of the SPDR&nbsp;Gold&nbsp;Trust, the world's largest&nbsp;gold-backed exchange-traded fund, have been at their highest since November 2016.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;looks neutral in a range of $1,488-$1,514 per ounce, and an escape could suggest a direction, Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao said.

Investors also sought further cues on the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve's trajectory on monetary easing later in the month.

"Global&nbsp;trade&nbsp;uncertainties along with subdued global growth will remain supportive towards safe-haven assets in the current term," Phillip Futures analyst Benjamin Lu said in a note.

Silver rose 0.1 per cent&nbsp;to $17.72 per ounce, palladium inched 0.2 per cent&nbsp;higher to $1,684.91 and platinum was little changed at $891.49 an ounce.

Gold prices scaled one-week highs on Thursday, holding ground above $1,500 an ounce, as investors flocked to the safety of bullion following contradictory reports about US-China trade talks.

Gold prices scaled one-week highs on Thursday, holding ground above $1,500 an ounce, as investors flocked to the safety of bullion following contradictory reports about US-China trade talks. Spot gold gained 0.1 per cent to $1,506.78 per ounce as of 0724 GMT, having notched a peak of $1,516.77 early in the session, its highest since October 3. US gold futures dropped 0.1 per cent to $1,511.80. "Gold is holding strong above $1,500 because of healthy inflows by ETFs (exchange-traded funds). If the US-China trade talks fail once again, gold prices could rally," said Jigar Trivedi, a commodities analyst at Mumbai-based Anand Rathi Shares & Stock Brokers. "Prices are not falling, because of strong investment demand and fundamental factors. $1,490 is the current support, and if prices drop below this, there could be an extended fall till $1,460." A report from the New York Times said Washington would soon issue licences permitting some US firms to supply non-sensitive goods to China's Huawei Technologies. A report by Bloomberg, saying the White House was looking at rolling out a currency pact with China, raised hopes of a partial deal and helped to lift risk assets. The South China Morning Post had reported earlier in the session that a Chinese delegation was planning to leave Washington after just a day of minister-level meetings, instead of Friday as planned, sending Asian stocks toppling. However, risk sentiment has recovered slightly since. Gold is often used by investors as a hedge against political and financial uncertainty. "Gold ETF holdings are at three-year highs and lots of central banks are also buying, which is keeping prices supported," said Argonaut Securities analyst Helen Lau, adding that some volatility could be expected in the gold market. Indicative of investor interest, holdings of the SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, have been at their highest since November 2016. Spot gold looks neutral in a range of $1,488-$1,514 per ounce, and an escape could suggest a direction, Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao said. Investors also sought further cues on the US Federal Reserve's trajectory on monetary easing later in the month. "Global trade uncertainties along with subdued global growth will remain supportive towards safe-haven assets in the current term," Phillip Futures analyst Benjamin Lu said in a note. Silver rose 0.1 per cent to $17.72 per ounce, palladium inched 0.2 per cent higher to $1,684.91 and platinum was little changed at $891.49 an ounce.

Gold rises to one-week peak amid trade anxiety

Gold prices were little changed on Thursday, following an over 1 per cent jump in the previous session, as investors awaited more data to gauge the health of the US economy.

Spot gold was steady at $1,498.97 per ounce, as of 0543 GMT, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-slip-as-united-states-widens-trade-war-to-europe-yes-bank-recovers-253385">US </a>gold futures slipped 0.2 per cent to $1,504.90 per ounce.

The precious metal jumped 1.4 per cent on Wednesday after disappointing hiring by US private employers unnerved investors already concerned about slowing growth in the world's largest economy.

"Gold is clearly being used as a hedge against volatility in other markets," said OANDA analyst Jeffrey Halley.

"With negative investor sentiment on global growth and trade and the meltdown in equity markets overnight we saw a flight to safe havens."

The jobs data comes ahead of the more comprehensive US nonfarm payrolls report due on Friday and added to the gloom prompted by a survey that showed manufacturing activity in the United States tumbled to a more than 10-year low in September.

The disappointing readings weighed on the dollar, which hit near one-week lows against the euro and yen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tokyo-leads-asian-market-gains-in-holiday-trade-252929">Asian stocks</a> also slipped on Thursday, following a drop on Wall Street, after Washington opened a new trade war front by saying it would impose tariffs on $7.5 billion of goods from the European Union.

"Gold prices have rallied strongly as weak economic data and geopolitical risks have increased the likelihood of further rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve," analysts at ANZ said in a note.

"US jobless data on Friday and consumer confidence early next week will be a key driver of gold in the short term."

Indicative of investor interest, holdings at SPDR Gold Trust the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 0.32 per cent to 923.76 tonnes on Wednesday.

On the technical front, spot gold may end its bounce in a range of $1,514-$1,524 per ounce, as suggested by a retracement analysis and a falling channel, according to Reuters analyst Wang Tao.

Among other precious metals, platinum was flat at $886.59 per ounce, while silver rose 0.2 per cent to $17.60 an ounce.

Palladium was up 0.1 per cent at $1,689.40 per ounce.

Gold prices were little changed on Thursday, following an over 1 per cent jump in the previous session, as investors awaited more data to gauge the health of the US economy.

Gold prices were little changed on Thursday, following an over 1 per cent jump in the previous session, as investors awaited more data to gauge the health of the US economy. Spot gold was steady at $1,498.97 per ounce, as of 0543 GMT, while US gold futures slipped 0.2 per cent to $1,504.90 per ounce. The precious metal jumped 1.4 per cent on Wednesday after disappointing hiring by US private employers unnerved investors already concerned about slowing growth in the world's largest economy. "Gold is clearly being used as a hedge against volatility in other markets," said OANDA analyst Jeffrey Halley. "With negative investor sentiment on global growth and trade and the meltdown in equity markets overnight we saw a flight to safe havens." The jobs data comes ahead of the more comprehensive US nonfarm payrolls report due on Friday and added to the gloom prompted by a survey that showed manufacturing activity in the United States tumbled to a more than 10-year low in September. The disappointing readings weighed on the dollar, which hit near one-week lows against the euro and yen. Asian stocks also slipped on Thursday, following a drop on Wall Street, after Washington opened a new trade war front by saying it would impose tariffs on $7.5 billion of goods from the European Union. "Gold prices have rallied strongly as weak economic data and geopolitical risks have increased the likelihood of further rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve," analysts at ANZ said in a note. "US jobless data on Friday and consumer confidence early next week will be a key driver of gold in the short term." Indicative of investor interest, holdings at SPDR Gold Trust the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 0.32 per cent to 923.76 tonnes on Wednesday. On the technical front, spot gold may end its bounce in a range of $1,514-$1,524 per ounce, as suggested by a retracement analysis and a falling channel, according to Reuters analyst Wang Tao. Among other precious metals, platinum was flat at $886.59 per ounce, while silver rose 0.2 per cent to $17.60 an ounce. Palladium was up 0.1 per cent at $1,689.40 per ounce.

Gold prices steady as market awaits United States employment report

World of fake-branded bars: How forgery crisis is slipping dirty gold into global markets

Gold prices in India jumped 1% on Monday to record levels, following gains in overseas markets and as the rupee fell to the lowest level in 2019, dampening retail demand further in the world's second-biggest consumer of the precious metal, dealers said.

Local gold futures hit an all-time high of 39,196 rupees&nbsp;per 10 grams in early trade, taking their gains to nearly 25% in 2019.

The rupee plunged to its lowest level in 2019 on Monday after a sharp re-escalation in the US-China trade war whacked investor confidence and darkened the global economic outlook.

Local silver futures were 1% higher at 45,058 rupees per kg, after rising to 45,148 rupees earlier in the day, the highest since October&nbsp;3, 2016.

Gold prices in India jumped 1% on Monday to record levels, following gains in overseas markets and as the rupee fell to the lowest level in 2019, dampening retail demand further in the world's second-biggest consumer of the precious metal, dealers said.

Gold prices in India jumped 1% on Monday to record levels, following gains in overseas markets and as the rupee fell to the lowest level in 2019, dampening retail demand further in the world's second-biggest consumer of the precious metal, dealers said. Local gold futures hit an all-time high of 39,196 rupees per 10 grams in early trade, taking their gains to nearly 25% in 2019. The rupee plunged to its lowest level in 2019 on Monday after a sharp re-escalation in the US-China trade war whacked investor confidence and darkened the global economic outlook. Local silver futures were 1% higher at 45,058 rupees per kg, after rising to 45,148 rupees earlier in the day, the highest since October 3, 2016.

India gold futures jump to record, silver at three-year high

Gold prices remained subdued on Monday after retreating from a 14-month peak in the previous session, as the dollar held near multi-week highs on strong US retail sales data, ahead of the US Federal Reserve meeting this week.

Spot gold was down 0.2% at $1,338.86 per ounce as of 0549 GMT, after hitting $1,358.04, its highest since April 11, 2018, on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-hits-two-week-low-as-upbeat-us-data-lifts-dollar-200423">US gold futures</a> were down 0.2% at $1,343.90 an ounce.

"For now, gold prices are holding tight. The markets have aggressively priced in rate-cut expectations and trade uncertainties have boosted safe-haven assets," said Benjamin Lu, an analyst with Singapore-based Phillip Futures.

Expectations of an interest rate cut at the Fed's June 18-19 meeting fell to 21.7% from 28.3% on Thursday, in the wake of the strong retail data, according to CME Group's FedWatch tool. However, bets for monetary easing at the July meeting remain high at 85%.

Weighing on bullion's appeal was the stronger dollar, which is holding near a two-week high on Monday, supported by strong US retail sales data, analysts said.

US retail sales increased in May and sales for the prior month were revised higher, suggesting a pick-up in consumer spending that could ease fears the economy was slowing down sharply in the second quarter.

Meanwhile, US Trade Representative's Office on Monday will kick off seven days of testimony from US retailers, manufacturers and other businesses about President Donald Trump's plan to hit another $300 billion worth of Chinese goods with tariffs.

"US-China trade tension is a supportive factor for the gold market, the unresolved trade dispute and any escalation is likely to increase demand for gold," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist, CMC Markets.

Indicative of the sentiment, holdings of SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 0.6% to 764.10 tonnes on Friday from 759.70 tonnes on Thursday.

Hedge funds and money managers raised their net long positions in COMEX gold in the week to June 11, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday.

Physical gold discounts in India widened to their biggest in five months last week as an upsurge in local prices dampened purchases, while China and Singapore saw demand rising from investors looking to hedge against a global slowdown.

Among other metals, silver eased 0.2% to $14.84 per ounce, while platinum rose 0.4% at $801.77.

Palladium fell 0.7% to $1,455.20 per ounce.

Gold prices remained subdued on Monday after retreating from a 14-month peak in the previous session, as the dollar held near multi-week highs on strong US retail sales data, ahead of the US Federal Reserve meeting this week.

Gold prices remained subdued on Monday after retreating from a 14-month peak in the previous session, as the dollar held near multi-week highs on strong US retail sales data, ahead of the US Federal Reserve meeting this week. Spot gold was down 0.2% at $1,338.86 per ounce as of 0549 GMT, after hitting $1,358.04, its highest since April 11, 2018, on Friday. US gold futures were down 0.2% at $1,343.90 an ounce. "For now, gold prices are holding tight. The markets have aggressively priced in rate-cut expectations and trade uncertainties have boosted safe-haven assets," said Benjamin Lu, an analyst with Singapore-based Phillip Futures. Expectations of an interest rate cut at the Fed's June 18-19 meeting fell to 21.7% from 28.3% on Thursday, in the wake of the strong retail data, according to CME Group's FedWatch tool. However, bets for monetary easing at the July meeting remain high at 85%. Weighing on bullion's appeal was the stronger dollar, which is holding near a two-week high on Monday, supported by strong US retail sales data, analysts said. US retail sales increased in May and sales for the prior month were revised higher, suggesting a pick-up in consumer spending that could ease fears the economy was slowing down sharply in the second quarter. Meanwhile, US Trade Representative's Office on Monday will kick off seven days of testimony from US retailers, manufacturers and other businesses about President Donald Trump's plan to hit another $300 billion worth of Chinese goods with tariffs. "US-China trade tension is a supportive factor for the gold market, the unresolved trade dispute and any escalation is likely to increase demand for gold," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist, CMC Markets. Indicative of the sentiment, holdings of SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 0.6% to 764.10 tonnes on Friday from 759.70 tonnes on Thursday. Hedge funds and money managers raised their net long positions in COMEX gold in the week to June 11, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday. Physical gold discounts in India widened to their biggest in five months last week as an upsurge in local prices dampened purchases, while China and Singapore saw demand rising from investors looking to hedge against a global slowdown. Among other metals, silver eased 0.2% to $14.84 per ounce, while platinum rose 0.4% at $801.77. Palladium fell 0.7% to $1,455.20 per ounce.

Gold prices subdued on firmer dollar; Fed meeting in focus

Gold prices edged higher on Friday amid concerns that a prolonged <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/we-cant-pay-informants-fbi-on-us-government-shutdown-192096&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwim7JrvjojgAhVKv48KHSO-DdkQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0dRzgZiX_rSxNlQ65tbxBd">US government shutdown </a>could exacerbate an already slowing global growth, while markets awaited US-China trade talks scheduled for next week.

Spot gold rose 0.2 per cent at $1,282.50 per ounce, as of 0343 GMT, while US gold futures were steady at $1,281.40 per ounce.

Investors are worried about the economic impact of the longest US government shutdown in history, now in its 34th day, with two bills to end the partial shutdown failing to win enough votes in the Senate.

"There are some positive features supporting gold like the US government shutdown, ongoing trade war and potential for slower rate hikes," said John Sharma, an economist with National Australia Bank.

"At the moment, people are waiting for the US-China trade discussions," Sharma said, adding that any development on that front could provide a direction for gold.

The United States and China are "miles and miles" from resolving trade issues, but there is a fair chance the two countries will get a deal, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said on Thursday.

Concerns about slowing global economy and hopes that the US Federal Reserve will pause its multi-year rate hike cycle are supporting gold, analysts said.

A synchronised global economic slowdown is underway and any escalation in the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-cuts-global-forecast-due-to-us-china-trade-tensions-191841&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwibjvXajojgAhUYaI8KHZdKDtoQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1P8ubV5EDxGkjQi6PzMCZS">US-China trade</a> war would trigger a sharper downturn, according to the latest Reuters polls of hundreds of economists from around the world.

"We expect that a topping out of US real yields will put a firmer floor under gold prices this year and Fed's hiking cycle to peter out in 2019," said Sabrin Chowdhury, commodities analyst at Fitch Solutions.

"Global risk-aversion will rise in 2019 and flows into safe-haven assets, including gold, are likely to pick up."

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, fell 0.2 per cent, after a report that Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party has privately decided to offer conditional backing for Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal next week.&nbsp;

A softer dollar makes gold less expensive for holders of other currencies.

Technically, spot gold has found support at $1,278 per ounce, and it may hover above this level or bounce towards resistance at $1,289, according to Reuters analyst Wang Tao.

Among other metals, palladium, which hit a record high of $1,434.50 an ounce last week on low inventories and rising demand, was steady at $1,320 on Friday.

It registered its biggest intraday percentage decline since December 21, falling 2 per cent to $1,313.50 on Thursday. The metal also was heading for its first weekly fall in five weeks.

Silver was up 0.3 per cent at $15.35 per ounce while platinum gained 0.3 per cent to $803.

Gold prices edged higher on Friday amid concerns that a prolonged US government shutdown could exacerbate an already slowing global growth, while markets awaited US-China trade talks scheduled for next week.

Gold prices edged higher on Friday amid concerns that a prolonged US government shutdown could exacerbate an already slowing global growth, while markets awaited US-China trade talks scheduled for next week. Spot gold rose 0.2 per cent at $1,282.50 per ounce, as of 0343 GMT, while US gold futures were steady at $1,281.40 per ounce. Investors are worried about the economic impact of the longest US government shutdown in history, now in its 34th day, with two bills to end the partial shutdown failing to win enough votes in the Senate. "There are some positive features supporting gold like the US government shutdown, ongoing trade war and potential for slower rate hikes," said John Sharma, an economist with National Australia Bank. "At the moment, people are waiting for the US-China trade discussions," Sharma said, adding that any development on that front could provide a direction for gold. The United States and China are "miles and miles" from resolving trade issues, but there is a fair chance the two countries will get a deal, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said on Thursday. Concerns about slowing global economy and hopes that the US Federal Reserve will pause its multi-year rate hike cycle are supporting gold, analysts said. A synchronised global economic slowdown is underway and any escalation in the US-China trade war would trigger a sharper downturn, according to the latest Reuters polls of hundreds of economists from around the world. "We expect that a topping out of US real yields will put a firmer floor under gold prices this year and Fed's hiking cycle to peter out in 2019," said Sabrin Chowdhury, commodities analyst at Fitch Solutions. "Global risk-aversion will rise in 2019 and flows into safe-haven assets, including gold, are likely to pick up." Meanwhile, the dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, fell 0.2 per cent, after a report that Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party has privately decided to offer conditional backing for Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal next week. A softer dollar makes gold less expensive for holders of other currencies. Technically, spot gold has found support at $1,278 per ounce, and it may hover above this level or bounce towards resistance at $1,289, according to Reuters analyst Wang Tao. Among other metals, palladium, which hit a record high of $1,434.50 an ounce last week on low inventories and rising demand, was steady at $1,320 on Friday. It registered its biggest intraday percentage decline since December 21, falling 2 per cent to $1,313.50 on Thursday. The metal also was heading for its first weekly fall in five weeks. Silver was up 0.3 per cent at $15.35 per ounce while platinum gained 0.3 per cent to $803.

Gold rises as US government shutdown deepens global growth concerns

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gold-prices-inch-higher-as-dollar-softens-183092">Gold&nbsp;prices</a> inched lower on Monday, as the dollar held firm below a 19-month peak on safe-haven demand amid concerns of a global economic slowdown, and as investors awaited cues on US interest rate hikes from a Federal Reserve meeting later this week.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;was down 0.1 per cent at $1,237.51 per ounce, as of 0401 GMT, after having hit its lowest since December 4 at $1,232.39 on Friday.

US&nbsp;gold&nbsp;futures were little changed at $1,241.3 per ounce.

Gold&nbsp;has not recovered yet from Friday's decline, said analyst Helen Lau of Argonaut Securities, adding that prices were moving on the strong dollar over the weekend.

Weaker-than-expected economic data out of China and Europe and fears of a possible US&nbsp;government shutdown enhanced appeal for the US&nbsp;currency, which has played the role of a safe-haven asset in recent times.&nbsp;

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against other major currencies, was just below the 19-month high of 97.71 hit on Friday.

Markets will closely watch the future trajectory of US&nbsp;monetary policy at the Federal Reserve's Dec. The 18-19 meeting where the board is set to raise interest rates by 25 basis points.

"Markets will rally on the back of dollar weakness after the central bank signals a more dovish stance, but the advance will fall back quickly as global growth concerns reassert themselves," INTL FCStone analyst Edward Meir said in a note.

Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar.

Spot&nbsp;gold&nbsp;is biased to break a support at $1,232 per ounce, and fall to a lower support zone of $1,224-$1,228, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao.

Meanwhile, hedge funds and money managers switched to the net long position in Comex&nbsp;gold&nbsp;in the week to December 11, the US&nbsp;Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday.&nbsp;

This was the first time&nbsp;gold&nbsp;speculators held a net long position since July and the strongest since June.

"Uncertainties of the trade war are still weighing on the market," said Dick Poon, general manager, Heraeus Metals Hong Kong Ltd.

"It is getting close to Christmas time, so it is getting super quiet in the market. Investors reduce their inventories as much as possible before the year ends."

Among other precious metals, spot palladium gained to $1,238.20 per ounce.

Silver declined marginally to $14.56 per ounce, while platinum fell 0.6 per cent to $782.50 per ounce.

Gold prices inched lower on Monday, as the dollar held firm below a 19-month peak on safe-haven demand amid concerns of a global economic slowdown, and as investors awaited cues on US interest rate hikes from a Federal Reserve meeting later this week.

Gold prices inched lower on Monday, as the dollar held firm below a 19-month peak on safe-haven demand amid concerns of a global economic slowdown, and as investors awaited cues on US interest rate hikes from a Federal Reserve meeting later this week. Spot gold was down 0.1 per cent at $1,237.51 per ounce, as of 0401 GMT, after having hit its lowest since December 4 at $1,232.39 on Friday. US gold futures were little changed at $1,241.3 per ounce. Gold has not recovered yet from Friday's decline, said analyst Helen Lau of Argonaut Securities, adding that prices were moving on the strong dollar over the weekend. Weaker-than-expected economic data out of China and Europe and fears of a possible US government shutdown enhanced appeal for the US currency, which has played the role of a safe-haven asset in recent times. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against other major currencies, was just below the 19-month high of 97.71 hit on Friday. Markets will closely watch the future trajectory of US monetary policy at the Federal Reserve's Dec. The 18-19 meeting where the board is set to raise interest rates by 25 basis points. "Markets will rally on the back of dollar weakness after the central bank signals a more dovish stance, but the advance will fall back quickly as global growth concerns reassert themselves," INTL FCStone analyst Edward Meir said in a note. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar. Spot gold is biased to break a support at $1,232 per ounce, and fall to a lower support zone of $1,224-$1,228, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Meanwhile, hedge funds and money managers switched to the net long position in Comex gold in the week to December 11, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday. This was the first time gold speculators held a net long position since July and the strongest since June. "Uncertainties of the trade war are still weighing on the market," said Dick Poon, general manager, Heraeus Metals Hong Kong Ltd. "It is getting close to Christmas time, so it is getting super quiet in the market. Investors reduce their inventories as much as possible before the year ends." Among other precious metals, spot palladium gained to $1,238.20 per ounce. Silver declined marginally to $14.56 per ounce, while platinum fell 0.6 per cent to $782.50 per ounce.

Firm dollar weighs on gold amid global growth risks

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-rate-stablizes-post-five-month-peak-on-easing-rate-hike-view-182800">Gold prices</a> edged higher on Tuesday, supported by hopes that the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve could pause its rate hike cycle sooner than expected and as the dollar slipped after the previous session's rally.

Spot gold was up 0.2 per cent at $1,246.62 per ounce, as of 0430 GMT. It touched its highest in nearly five months at $1,250.55 in the prior session.

US&nbsp;gold futures were 0.2 per cent higher at $1,251.4 per ounce.

"Weakening US&nbsp;dollar outlook and very dovish pivots from the Fed, a lot of uncertainty boxed around equity markets... It can still turn quite negative, so this is why gold remains a good hedge against a lot of market risks," said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA in Singapore.

"I am very bullish on gold in this setup into 2019."

The dollar index, a measure of the greenback's strength versus a group of six major peers, edged lower after rallying in the previous session as a vote on Brexit deal was postponed.

Investors are now focused on the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve's December 18-19 policy meeting for clues on future rate hikes.

The Fed's plans to continue raising interest rates next year were met with more scepticism on Wall Street on Monday, with futures traders betting on a pause and one major bank partially walking back a hawkish prediction.

"Markets still see an increase in December but even one further hike in 2019 is now being questioned whereas two of them were fully priced in just a month ago," said Ilya Spivak, a currency strategist for DailyFX.

Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar.

"Technically, the break of $1,250 will be very significant... $1,250 is a very key point and on the bottom, it's $1,240," OANDA's Innes said.

Meanwhile, hedge funds and money managers trimmed their net short positions in Comex gold and silver contracts in the week to December 4, the US&nbsp;Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Monday.

Among other precious metals, spot silver was up 0.3 per cent at $14.57 per ounce, while palladium rose 0.3 per cent to $1,221.35.

Platinum was down 0.4 per cent at $782.10 per ounce. Prices had slipped to their lowest since Sept. 10 at $773.50 in the previous session.

Gold prices edged higher on Tuesday, supported by hopes that the US Federal Reserve could pause its rate hike cycle sooner than expected and as the dollar slipped after the previous session's rally.

Gold prices edged higher on Tuesday, supported by hopes that the US Federal Reserve could pause its rate hike cycle sooner than expected and as the dollar slipped after the previous session's rally. Spot gold was up 0.2 per cent at $1,246.62 per ounce, as of 0430 GMT. It touched its highest in nearly five months at $1,250.55 in the prior session. US gold futures were 0.2 per cent higher at $1,251.4 per ounce. "Weakening US dollar outlook and very dovish pivots from the Fed, a lot of uncertainty boxed around equity markets... It can still turn quite negative, so this is why gold remains a good hedge against a lot of market risks," said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA in Singapore. "I am very bullish on gold in this setup into 2019." The dollar index, a measure of the greenback's strength versus a group of six major peers, edged lower after rallying in the previous session as a vote on Brexit deal was postponed. Investors are now focused on the US Federal Reserve's December 18-19 policy meeting for clues on future rate hikes. The Fed's plans to continue raising interest rates next year were met with more scepticism on Wall Street on Monday, with futures traders betting on a pause and one major bank partially walking back a hawkish prediction. "Markets still see an increase in December but even one further hike in 2019 is now being questioned whereas two of them were fully priced in just a month ago," said Ilya Spivak, a currency strategist for DailyFX. Lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding bullion and weigh on the dollar. "Technically, the break of $1,250 will be very significant... $1,250 is a very key point and on the bottom, it's $1,240," OANDA's Innes said. Meanwhile, hedge funds and money managers trimmed their net short positions in Comex gold and silver contracts in the week to December 4, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Monday. Among other precious metals, spot silver was up 0.3 per cent at $14.57 per ounce, while palladium rose 0.3 per cent to $1,221.35. Platinum was down 0.4 per cent at $782.10 per ounce. Prices had slipped to their lowest since Sept. 10 at $773.50 in the previous session.

Gold prices inch higher as dollar softens

Gold prices inched up on Friday but held near six-week lows hit in the previous session, as the dollar firmed after upbeat US economic data supported the Federal Reserve's resolve for steady interest rate hikes over the next year.

The dollar stood tall against its peers on Friday after data showed US economic growth accelerated in the second quarter at its fastest pace in nearly four years. Another report showed durable goods rose 4.5 per cent in August, rebounding from a revised 1.2 per cent drop the month before.

Spot gold was up 0.2 per cent to $1,184.91 as of 0405 GMT. On Thursday, the metal fell about 1 per cent and touched its lowest since August 17 at $1,181.61 an ounce. Spot gold is down about 1.2 per cent for the week, on track for its fourth weekly decline in five.

US gold futures were up 0.1 per cent at $1,188.80 an ounce.

The short-term outlook is bearish for gold as the dollar may see some upside due to an ongoing trade war between China and the US and the Federal Reserve interest rate hike outlook, according to Argonaut Securities analyst Helen Lau.

The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates on Wednesday and said it planned four more increases by the end of 2019 and another in 2020.

"Gold has been trying to overcome the psychological level of $1,200 an ounce for the past few days. We didn't see that happening. And when it doesn't go up, it comes down," said Brian Lan, managing director at dealer GoldSilver Central in Singapore.

"After the prices came down we have seen some physical buying mainly from the businesses, which is offering some support at this time."

Gold is down more than 13 per cent from an April high, largely because of the stronger dollar, which has been boosted by a vibrant US economy and fears of a global trade war. Investors have bought the greenback instead of gold as a safe investment.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump's accusation of Chinese meddling in the upcoming US elections marks a new phase in an escalating pressure campaign against Beijing that Washington is pursuing on multiple fronts, senior US officials said on Thursday.

"The trade war continues to favour the US dollar and this will generally dampen gold's upside," said Nicholas Frappell, global general manager, ABC Bullion, Australia.

"Large speculative shorts may help cushion weakness as punters keep an eye on levels to close out and take money off the table," he said.

Among other metals, palladium touched a fresh eight-month high at $1,087.40 an ounce. Silver rose 0.6 per cent to $14.29 an ounce and platinum declined 0.4 per cent to $806.0. 
&nbsp;

Gold prices inched up on Friday but held near six-week lows hit in the previous session, as the dollar firmed after upbeat US economic data supported the Federal Reserve's resolve for steady interest rate hikes over the next year.

Gold prices inched up on Friday but held near six-week lows hit in the previous session, as the dollar firmed after upbeat US economic data supported the Federal Reserve's resolve for steady interest rate hikes over the next year. The dollar stood tall against its peers on Friday after data showed US economic growth accelerated in the second quarter at its fastest pace in nearly four years. Another report showed durable goods rose 4.5 per cent in August, rebounding from a revised 1.2 per cent drop the month before. Spot gold was up 0.2 per cent to $1,184.91 as of 0405 GMT. On Thursday, the metal fell about 1 per cent and touched its lowest since August 17 at $1,181.61 an ounce. Spot gold is down about 1.2 per cent for the week, on track for its fourth weekly decline in five. US gold futures were up 0.1 per cent at $1,188.80 an ounce. The short-term outlook is bearish for gold as the dollar may see some upside due to an ongoing trade war between China and the US and the Federal Reserve interest rate hike outlook, according to Argonaut Securities analyst Helen Lau. The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates on Wednesday and said it planned four more increases by the end of 2019 and another in 2020. "Gold has been trying to overcome the psychological level of $1,200 an ounce for the past few days. We didn't see that happening. And when it doesn't go up, it comes down," said Brian Lan, managing director at dealer GoldSilver Central in Singapore. "After the prices came down we have seen some physical buying mainly from the businesses, which is offering some support at this time." Gold is down more than 13 per cent from an April high, largely because of the stronger dollar, which has been boosted by a vibrant US economy and fears of a global trade war. Investors have bought the greenback instead of gold as a safe investment. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump's accusation of Chinese meddling in the upcoming US elections marks a new phase in an escalating pressure campaign against Beijing that Washington is pursuing on multiple fronts, senior US officials said on Thursday. "The trade war continues to favour the US dollar and this will generally dampen gold's upside," said Nicholas Frappell, global general manager, ABC Bullion, Australia. "Large speculative shorts may help cushion weakness as punters keep an eye on levels to close out and take money off the table," he said. Among other metals, palladium touched a fresh eight-month high at $1,087.40 an ounce. Silver rose 0.6 per cent to $14.29 an ounce and platinum declined 0.4 per cent to $806.0.

Gold holds near six-week lows after upbeat US data

Gold prices rose on Thursday as investors looked for bargains after the metal fell to a two-week low in the previous session following a US&nbsp;interest rate hike and as limited gains in the dollar after the decision supported demand for the metal.

Spot gold had risen 0.4 per cent to $1,198.22 an ounce as of 0404 GMT. On Wednesday, the metal touched its lowest since September 11 at $1,190.13 an ounce.

Spot gold prices have closed in a range between $1,210 and $1,190 an ounce since Aug. 28.

US&nbsp;gold futures were up 0.3 per cent at $1,202.10 an ounce.

As expected the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the third time this year on Wednesday, and left intact its plans to steadily tighten monetary policy, as it forecast that the US&nbsp;economy would enjoy at least three more years of growth.

"The fact that the Fed didn't come out as overly hawkish meant there was some positivity felt through emerging market currencies. This may be playing in gold being gingerly bought," said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA in Singapore.

"We are still big sellers towards $1,200 an ounce and buyers towards $1,190 ... Bargain hunting is definitely coming to the equation at the lower end of the scale."

MSCI's index for emerging market currencies edged up 0.2 per cent on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the dollar steadied against its peers as the small boost it received from the Fed interest rate hike faded, with a decline in US&nbsp;Treasury yields reducing support for the greenback.

"The Fed statement did not have much of an impact on the dollar and so we would venture to guess that the greenback could resume a little lower over the course of the next week or two, possibly giving gold an element of support," INTL FCStone analyst Edward Meir said in a note.

However, there is little evidence that gold's tight trading range will change anytime soon, Meir added.

Gold is sensitive to higher interest rates because they boost the dollar, making bullion more expensive for buyers using other currencies.

Gold has fallen more than 12 per cent since hitting a peak in April against a backdrop of trade disputes and as the rising US&nbsp;interest rates have cut demand for non-interest bearing bullion.

Meanwhile, China on Wednesday unveiled plans to cut tariffs for products including machinery, electrical equipment and textile products beginning on November 1, as the country braces for an escalating trade war with the United States.

Among other precious metals, spot palladium rose 0.4 per&nbsp;cent to $1,071.22 an ounce, hovering near an eight-month high of $1,075 hit in the previous session.

Silver rose 1.1 per cent to $14.44 an ounce and platinum gained 0.7 per cent to $826.70 per ounce.

Gold prices rose on Thursday as investors looked for bargains after the metal fell to a two-week low in the previous session following a US interest rate hike and as limited gains in the dollar after the decision supported demand for the metal.

Gold prices rose on Thursday as investors looked for bargains after the metal fell to a two-week low in the previous session following a US interest rate hike and as limited gains in the dollar after the decision supported demand for the metal. Spot gold had risen 0.4 per cent to $1,198.22 an ounce as of 0404 GMT. On Wednesday, the metal touched its lowest since September 11 at $1,190.13 an ounce. Spot gold prices have closed in a range between $1,210 and $1,190 an ounce since Aug. 28. US gold futures were up 0.3 per cent at $1,202.10 an ounce. As expected the US Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the third time this year on Wednesday, and left intact its plans to steadily tighten monetary policy, as it forecast that the US economy would enjoy at least three more years of growth. "The fact that the Fed didn't come out as overly hawkish meant there was some positivity felt through emerging market currencies. This may be playing in gold being gingerly bought," said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA in Singapore. "We are still big sellers towards $1,200 an ounce and buyers towards $1,190 ... Bargain hunting is definitely coming to the equation at the lower end of the scale." MSCI's index for emerging market currencies edged up 0.2 per cent on Thursday. Meanwhile, the dollar steadied against its peers as the small boost it received from the Fed interest rate hike faded, with a decline in US Treasury yields reducing support for the greenback. "The Fed statement did not have much of an impact on the dollar and so we would venture to guess that the greenback could resume a little lower over the course of the next week or two, possibly giving gold an element of support," INTL FCStone analyst Edward Meir said in a note. However, there is little evidence that gold's tight trading range will change anytime soon, Meir added. Gold is sensitive to higher interest rates because they boost the dollar, making bullion more expensive for buyers using other currencies. Gold has fallen more than 12 per cent since hitting a peak in April against a backdrop of trade disputes and as the rising US interest rates have cut demand for non-interest bearing bullion. Meanwhile, China on Wednesday unveiled plans to cut tariffs for products including machinery, electrical equipment and textile products beginning on November 1, as the country braces for an escalating trade war with the United States. Among other precious metals, spot palladium rose 0.4 per cent to $1,071.22 an ounce, hovering near an eight-month high of $1,075 hit in the previous session. Silver rose 1.1 per cent to $14.44 an ounce and platinum gained 0.7 per cent to $826.70 per ounce.

Gold rises on bargain hunting, limited dollar gain on US rate hike

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year.

FUNDAMENTALS

** Spot gold &lt;XAU=&gt; was down 0.1 per cent at $1,200.18, as of 0057 GMT.

** US gold futures &lt;GCcv1&gt; little changed at $1,204.6 an ounce.

** Investors await details from the two-day Federal Reserve meeting that began on Tuesday, with the US central bank expected to raise benchmark interest rates and shed light on the path for future rate hikes.

** Higher US interest rates typically pressure gold, since it costs to store and insure, but does not pay interest.

** US consumer confidence surged to an 18-year high in September as households grew more upbeat about the labour market, pointing to sustained strength in the economy despite an increasingly bitter trade dispute between the United States and China.

** US President Donald Trump's top trade official said on Tuesday that changing China's economic policies to become more market-oriented "is not going to be easy" even with tariffs now in place on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods.

** Although gold is generally considered to be a safe-haven asset, the months-long trade rift between Washington and Beijing has instead prompted investors to buy US dollars in the belief that the United States has less to lose from the dispute.

** The dollar index &lt;.DXY&gt;, which weighs the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, was up 0.1 per cent.&nbsp;

** Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday.

** Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday with the US President vowing more sanctions against Tehran and Rouhani suggesting his American counterpart suffers from a "weakness of intellect."

** Money markets now anticipate the ECB will lift interest rates in September 2019, bringing forward expectations for a first rate hike in a sign of growing conviction that a move will come before Mario Draghi's term as ECB chief ends.

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year.

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year. FUNDAMENTALS ** Spot gold <XAU=> was down 0.1 per cent at $1,200.18, as of 0057 GMT. ** US gold futures <GCcv1> little changed at $1,204.6 an ounce. ** Investors await details from the two-day Federal Reserve meeting that began on Tuesday, with the US central bank expected to raise benchmark interest rates and shed light on the path for future rate hikes. ** Higher US interest rates typically pressure gold, since it costs to store and insure, but does not pay interest. ** US consumer confidence surged to an 18-year high in September as households grew more upbeat about the labour market, pointing to sustained strength in the economy despite an increasingly bitter trade dispute between the United States and China. ** US President Donald Trump's top trade official said on Tuesday that changing China's economic policies to become more market-oriented "is not going to be easy" even with tariffs now in place on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods. ** Although gold is generally considered to be a safe-haven asset, the months-long trade rift between Washington and Beijing has instead prompted investors to buy US dollars in the belief that the United States has less to lose from the dispute. ** The dollar index <.DXY>, which weighs the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, was up 0.1 per cent. ** Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday. ** Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday with the US President vowing more sanctions against Tehran and Rouhani suggesting his American counterpart suffers from a "weakness of intellect." ** Money markets now anticipate the ECB will lift interest rates in September 2019, bringing forward expectations for a first rate hike in a sign of growing conviction that a move will come before Mario Draghi's term as ECB chief ends.

Gold inches down as dollar firms; Fed in focus

Gold prices steadied on Friday but were on track for their biggest weekly fall since May ahead of US&nbsp;employment data later that could influence the pace of US&nbsp;interest rate rises.

Gold this week broke below a recent trading range and tumbled through technical levels to its lowest since July as progress on US&nbsp;tax reform fuelled optimism about the US&nbsp;economy and boosted the dollar.

&quot;You can put it down to the strength of the dollar and the ebullience of investors regarding equities and all things risk-on,&quot; said ETF Securities analyst Martin Arnold.

&quot;When in such a positive mindset investors don&#39;t look for defensive assets like gold.&quot;

The dollar was given an extra boost on Friday after a funding bill eased fears of a US&nbsp;government shutdown this month. A stronger dollar makes bullion more expensive for holders of other currencies and can dampen demand.

Spot gold was down 0.1 percent at $1,245.66 an ounce at 1109 GMT, close to Thursday&#39;s low of $1243.71, the weakest since July 26. It had fallen 2.7 percent this week, its third consecutive weekly fall and the biggest since early May.

US&nbsp;gold futures were 0.4 percent lower at $1,247.80.

Selling was triggered after gold broke below $1,260, the bottom of its trading range since September, and plunged below its 200-day moving average for the first time since July.

Technical support is now at $1,250 and a Fibonacci level at $1,240.90 but momentum indicators suggest that gold could fall to $1,204.90, the July low, said analysts at ScotiaMocatta.

However, ETF Securities&#39; Arnold said prices were supported by risks including US&nbsp;policy paralysis, tensions in North Korea and the Middle East, and a potential correction in equity valuations. He said gold&#39;s fair value was $1,260-$1,280.

Gold is traditionally seen as a safe investment in times of uncertainty.

Investors were looking ahead to US&nbsp;non-farm payrolls data at 1330 GMT. The US&nbsp;Federal Reserve is expected next week to announce a rise in interest rates and offer guidance on the pace of further increases. Strong payrolls would support the case for aggressive rate rises.

Gold is sensitive to rising interest rates because they push up bond yields, reducing the appeal of non-yielding gold, and tend to boost the dollar.

Among other precious metals, silver was up 0.4 percent at $15.78 but down 4 percent this week.

Platinum was 0.1 percent lower at $892.20 an ounce and on track to fall nearly 5 percent this week, its biggest weekly loss in nine months.

Palladium was up 0.1 percent at $1,013.75 an ounce.

Gold prices steadied on Friday but were on track for their biggest weekly fall since May ahead of US?employment data later that could influence the pace of US?interest rate rises.

Gold prices steadied on Friday but were on track for their biggest weekly fall since May ahead of US employment data later that could influence the pace of US interest rate rises. Gold this week broke below a recent trading range and tumbled through technical levels to its lowest since July as progress on US tax reform fuelled optimism about the US economy and boosted the dollar. "You can put it down to the strength of the dollar and the ebullience of investors regarding equities and all things risk-on," said ETF Securities analyst Martin Arnold. "When in such a positive mindset investors don't look for defensive assets like gold." The dollar was given an extra boost on Friday after a funding bill eased fears of a US government shutdown this month. A stronger dollar makes bullion more expensive for holders of other currencies and can dampen demand. Spot gold was down 0.1 percent at $1,245.66 an ounce at 1109 GMT, close to Thursday's low of $1243.71, the weakest since July 26. It had fallen 2.7 percent this week, its third consecutive weekly fall and the biggest since early May. US gold futures were 0.4 percent lower at $1,247.80. Selling was triggered after gold broke below $1,260, the bottom of its trading range since September, and plunged below its 200-day moving average for the first time since July. Technical support is now at $1,250 and a Fibonacci level at $1,240.90 but momentum indicators suggest that gold could fall to $1,204.90, the July low, said analysts at ScotiaMocatta. However, ETF Securities' Arnold said prices were supported by risks including US policy paralysis, tensions in North Korea and the Middle East, and a potential correction in equity valuations. He said gold's fair value was $1,260-$1,280. Gold is traditionally seen as a safe investment in times of uncertainty. Investors were looking ahead to US non-farm payrolls data at 1330 GMT. The US Federal Reserve is expected next week to announce a rise in interest rates and offer guidance on the pace of further increases. Strong payrolls would support the case for aggressive rate rises. Gold is sensitive to rising interest rates because they push up bond yields, reducing the appeal of non-yielding gold, and tend to boost the dollar. Among other precious metals, silver was up 0.4 percent at $15.78 but down 4 percent this week. Platinum was 0.1 percent lower at $892.20 an ounce and on track to fall nearly 5 percent this week, its biggest weekly loss in nine months. Palladium was up 0.1 percent at $1,013.75 an ounce.

Dollar rise pushes gold toward biggest weekly fall since May

Gold prices tread lower on Wednesday as the dollar steadied, with investors awaiting minutes from the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve&#39;s last meeting in July for clues on the pace of potential interest rate hikes.

Spot gold had slipped 0.2 per cent to $1,269.11 per ounce by 0712 GMT, following two sessions of falls.

US&nbsp;gold futures for December delivery were down about 0.4 per cent at $1,274.90 an ounce.

Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee meeting are due later in the day.

&quot;The bullish dollar is shifting the focus away from the safe havens,&quot; said Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at Think Markets.

&quot;The increasing odds of the US&nbsp;interest rate hike could push the gold price below the $1,250 level and this could happen if the upcoming FOMC minutes deliver some hawkish tone.&quot;

Higher interest rates could boost the dollar, making commodities priced in the greenback more expensive for holders of other currencies.

The dollar index was little changed at 93.895.

The dollar hoarded hefty gains on Wednesday after strong US&nbsp;retail sales revived the chance of another Federal Reserve rate hike this year, while Asia stocks inched ahead as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un delayed a decision on firing missiles towards Guam.

&quot;We probably saw some of the selling (in gold) that came in as tensions eased between North Korea and the United States become a bit overdone. Certainly, the underlying issues that started emerging last week are far from evaporated,&quot; said ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes.

Spot gold may test a resistance at $1,278 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to the next resistance at $1,286, Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao said.

Among other precious metals, silver was up 0.1 per cent at $16.61 per ounce and platinum rose 0.26 per cent to $959.50 per ounce.

Palladium was mostly unchanged at $885.25 after touching its lowest in over a week earlier in the session.

US?gold futures for December delivery were down about 0.4 per cent at $1,274.90 an ounce

Gold prices tread lower on Wednesday as the dollar steadied, with investors awaiting minutes from the US Federal Reserve's last meeting in July for clues on the pace of potential interest rate hikes. Spot gold had slipped 0.2 per cent to $1,269.11 per ounce by 0712 GMT, following two sessions of falls. US gold futures for December delivery were down about 0.4 per cent at $1,274.90 an ounce. Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee meeting are due later in the day. "The bullish dollar is shifting the focus away from the safe havens," said Naeem Aslam, chief market analyst at Think Markets. "The increasing odds of the US interest rate hike could push the gold price below the $1,250 level and this could happen if the upcoming FOMC minutes deliver some hawkish tone." Higher interest rates could boost the dollar, making commodities priced in the greenback more expensive for holders of other currencies. The dollar index was little changed at 93.895. The dollar hoarded hefty gains on Wednesday after strong US retail sales revived the chance of another Federal Reserve rate hike this year, while Asia stocks inched ahead as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un delayed a decision on firing missiles towards Guam. "We probably saw some of the selling (in gold) that came in as tensions eased between North Korea and the United States become a bit overdone. Certainly, the underlying issues that started emerging last week are far from evaporated," said ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes. Spot gold may test a resistance at $1,278 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to the next resistance at $1,286, Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao said. Among other precious metals, silver was up 0.1 per cent at $16.61 per ounce and platinum rose 0.26 per cent to $959.50 per ounce. Palladium was mostly unchanged at $885.25 after touching its lowest in over a week earlier in the session.

Gold treads lower ahead of Fed minutes

Deutsche Bank&nbsp;has agreed to pay $60 million to settle private US&nbsp;antitrust litigation by traders and other investors who accused the German bank of conspiring to manipulate gold prices at their expense.

The preliminary settlement was filed on Friday with the US&nbsp;District Court in Manhattan, and requires a judge&#39;s approval.

Deutsche Bank denied wrongdoing. The bank in October agreed to pay $38 million to settle similar litigation over alleged silver price manipulation.

Amanda Williams, a spokeswoman for the bank, declined to comment. Lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The case is one of many in the Manhattan court in which investors accused banks of conspiring to rig rates and prices in financial and commodities markets.

Investors sued Deutsche Bank, Barclays Plc, Bank of Nova Scotia, HSBC Holdings Plc and Societe Generale in 2014, claiming that they conspired to fix gold prices from 2004 to 2013.

While the investors did not estimate the size of the banks&#39; gold portfolios, they said the gold derivatives market alone reached $650 billion during the class period.

Deutsche Bank had agreed to settle its part of the case in April, but the terms were not disclosed until now.

In an October 3 decision, US&nbsp;District Judge Valerie Caproni in Manhattan said investors could pursue much of their lawsuit against the other four banks.

Deutsche Bank has separately been in talks with US&nbsp;authorities on a potential multibillion-dollar penalty related to mortgage securities.

(Reuters)

Traders and other investors have accused the German bank of conspiring to manipulate gold prices at their expense

Deutsche Bank has agreed to pay $60 million to settle private US antitrust litigation by traders and other investors who accused the German bank of conspiring to manipulate gold prices at their expense. The preliminary settlement was filed on Friday with the US District Court in Manhattan, and requires a judge's approval. Deutsche Bank denied wrongdoing. The bank in October agreed to pay $38 million to settle similar litigation over alleged silver price manipulation. Amanda Williams, a spokeswoman for the bank, declined to comment. Lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The case is one of many in the Manhattan court in which investors accused banks of conspiring to rig rates and prices in financial and commodities markets. Investors sued Deutsche Bank, Barclays Plc, Bank of Nova Scotia, HSBC Holdings Plc and Societe Generale in 2014, claiming that they conspired to fix gold prices from 2004 to 2013. While the investors did not estimate the size of the banks' gold portfolios, they said the gold derivatives market alone reached $650 billion during the class period. Deutsche Bank had agreed to settle its part of the case in April, but the terms were not disclosed until now. In an October 3 decision, US District Judge Valerie Caproni in Manhattan said investors could pursue much of their lawsuit against the other four banks. Deutsche Bank has separately been in talks with US authorities on a potential multibillion-dollar penalty related to mortgage securities. (Reuters)

Deutsche Bank to pay $60 million to settle US gold price-fixing case

Gold saw its biggest one-day fall in three weeks yesterday as global equities rallied on easing political uncertainty in Britain and hopes for more economic stimulus, which in turn curbed demand for assets perceived as safe havens. 
 
Spot gold fell as much as 1.9 pe rcent to $1,329.75 an ounce and was down 1.6 pct at $1,332.86 by 2:20 p.m. EDT (1820 GMT).&nbsp; 
The most active US gold futures for August delivery settled down 1.6 per cent at $1,335.30 per ounce.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Tensions in Britain are easing for now, as the country will soon have a new Prime Minister,&quot; ActivTrades chief analyst Carlo Alberto de Casa said, referring to incoming Prime Minister, Theresa May, who will replace David Cameron on Wednesday. 
 
&quot;With the British pound gaining some ground, demand for gold and other safe havens is decreasing,&quot; he said. 
 
Gold has gained about $100 an ounce since Britain voted recently to leave the European Union, with worried investors piling their cash into safe-haven assets.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;The UK has a leader and we almost have the outlines of a plan,&quot; said Rob Haworth, senior investment strategist for US Bank Wealth&nbsp;Management in Seattle, describing a &quot;risk-on day&quot; pressuring prices despite a weak U.S. dollar. 
 
Profit-taking and new highs in the US stock market also weighed on bullion, Haworth said. 
 
Major US stock indexes set record intraday highs on Tuesday as optimism about the world economy and upbeat corporate results from Alcoa boosted risk appetite, while European shares rose for a fourth straight day.&nbsp; 
 
Japan&#39;s ruling coalition fanned expectations of more fiscal stimulus, while the Bank of England could cut rates as soon as Thursday following its monthly policy meeting. 
 
&quot;The additional stimulus packages will continue to create a challenging environment for investors looking for a return because they are not getting it through bonds and as long as we have that scenario, then the alternatives are currently stocks but also precious metals,&quot; 
Saxo Bank senior manager Ole Hansen said. 
 
Markets were also assessing whether the latest US jobs data, which was stronger than expected, has boosted the prospects for an interest rate increase by the US Federal Reserve. 
 
The European Central Bank will not ease monetary policy any further at its meeting next week, according to an overwhelming majority of respondents in a Reuters poll of euro money market traders. 
Silver was down 0.65 per cent at $20.13 an ounce.&nbsp; 
 
Platinum fell for the first time in two weeks, down 1.14 per cent at $1,087. Palladium rose 1 per cent to $627.50. 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

Gold has gained about $100 an ounce since Brexit but UK is now hoping for more economic stimulus?as it welcomes new Prime Minister

Gold saw its biggest one-day fall in three weeks yesterday as global equities rallied on easing political uncertainty in Britain and hopes for more economic stimulus, which in turn curbed demand for assets perceived as safe havens. Spot gold fell as much as 1.9 pe rcent to $1,329.75 an ounce and was down 1.6 pct at $1,332.86 by 2:20 p.m. EDT (1820 GMT). The most active US gold futures for August delivery settled down 1.6 per cent at $1,335.30 per ounce. "Tensions in Britain are easing for now, as the country will soon have a new Prime Minister," ActivTrades chief analyst Carlo Alberto de Casa said, referring to incoming Prime Minister, Theresa May, who will replace David Cameron on Wednesday. "With the British pound gaining some ground, demand for gold and other safe havens is decreasing," he said. Gold has gained about $100 an ounce since Britain voted recently to leave the European Union, with worried investors piling their cash into safe-haven assets. "The UK has a leader and we almost have the outlines of a plan," said Rob Haworth, senior investment strategist for US Bank Wealth Management in Seattle, describing a "risk-on day" pressuring prices despite a weak U.S. dollar. Profit-taking and new highs in the US stock market also weighed on bullion, Haworth said. Major US stock indexes set record intraday highs on Tuesday as optimism about the world economy and upbeat corporate results from Alcoa boosted risk appetite, while European shares rose for a fourth straight day. Japan's ruling coalition fanned expectations of more fiscal stimulus, while the Bank of England could cut rates as soon as Thursday following its monthly policy meeting. "The additional stimulus packages will continue to create a challenging environment for investors looking for a return because they are not getting it through bonds and as long as we have that scenario, then the alternatives are currently stocks but also precious metals," Saxo Bank senior manager Ole Hansen said. Markets were also assessing whether the latest US jobs data, which was stronger than expected, has boosted the prospects for an interest rate increase by the US Federal Reserve. The European Central Bank will not ease monetary policy any further at its meeting next week, according to an overwhelming majority of respondents in a Reuters poll of euro money market traders. Silver was down 0.65 per cent at $20.13 an ounce. Platinum fell for the first time in two weeks, down 1.14 per cent at $1,087. Palladium rose 1 per cent to $627.50. (Reuters)

Gold sees biggest one-day fall in 3 weeks as pound gains ground

Gold rose as much as 1 per cent today, hitting the highest in more than two years, as investors piled back into safe havens such as bullion amid renewed market jitters over Britain&#39;s decision to leave the European Union (EU).&nbsp; 
 
Asian shares also tumbled as fears over instability in the EU returned with a vengeance, sending the pound to three-decade low and hammering risky assets. 
 
Spot gold touched its highest since March 2014 at $1,371.40, and was trading up 0.9 per cent at $1,367.20 an ounce by 0401 GMT. It surpassed the $1,358.20 mark hit on June 24 in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit vote. 
 
US gold was up 0.8 per cent at $1,369.40. 
 
&quot;No one is able to understand how much risk is yet to be unravelled (from Brexit). That is an uncertainty that no one likes. This is what is driving gold prices higher,&quot; said Helen Lau, an analyst at Argonaut Securities in Hong Kong. 
 
Yellow metal is on track to log its biggest yearly gain since 2010&nbsp; 
 
The Bank of England took steps on Tuesday to ensure British banks keep lending as the financial consequences of the decision to leave the EU began to materialise. 
 
The yellow metal, often favoured as a hedge against economic and financial uncertainty, has risen about 29 per cent this year and is on track to log its biggest yearly gain since 2010. 
 
Further boosting gold, were comments from New York Federal Reserve President William Dudley, who said that the central bank can be patient on raising interest rates due to low inflation and uncertainties over US economic prospects. 
 
New orders for US factory goods fell in May on weak demand for transportation and defence capital goods, but growing order backlogs and lean inventories suggested the worst of the manufacturing downturn was probably over. 
 
Investors will be watching out for signs on the US Federal Reserve&#39;s thinking on rates from minutes of its June 14-15 meeting due later in the day. 
 
Holdings in SPDR Gold Trust, the world&#39;s largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, increased 3.02 per cent to 982.72 tonnes on Tuesday, the highest since June 2013. 
 
SPDR gold holdings have jumped more than 50 per cent this year so far, heading for biggest annual rise since 2006. 
 
Spot silver&#39;s rally hit a bump on Tuesday as the metal fell 2 per cent, its biggest one-day loss in about three weeks. It was up 1.7 per cent at $20.26. 
 
Among other precious metals, platinum, which was trading at two-month highs, edged 0.2 per cent lower to $1,070.24 an ounce. 
 
Palladium was up 0.3 per cent at $599.47. 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

Asian shares also tumbled as fears over instability in the EU returned with a vengeance, sending the pound to three-decade low

Gold rose as much as 1 per cent today, hitting the highest in more than two years, as investors piled back into safe havens such as bullion amid renewed market jitters over Britain's decision to leave the European Union (EU). Asian shares also tumbled as fears over instability in the EU returned with a vengeance, sending the pound to three-decade low and hammering risky assets. Spot gold touched its highest since March 2014 at $1,371.40, and was trading up 0.9 per cent at $1,367.20 an ounce by 0401 GMT. It surpassed the $1,358.20 mark hit on June 24 in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit vote. US gold was up 0.8 per cent at $1,369.40. "No one is able to understand how much risk is yet to be unravelled (from Brexit). That is an uncertainty that no one likes. This is what is driving gold prices higher," said Helen Lau, an analyst at Argonaut Securities in Hong Kong. Yellow metal is on track to log its biggest yearly gain since 2010 The Bank of England took steps on Tuesday to ensure British banks keep lending as the financial consequences of the decision to leave the EU began to materialise. The yellow metal, often favoured as a hedge against economic and financial uncertainty, has risen about 29 per cent this year and is on track to log its biggest yearly gain since 2010. Further boosting gold, were comments from New York Federal Reserve President William Dudley, who said that the central bank can be patient on raising interest rates due to low inflation and uncertainties over US economic prospects. New orders for US factory goods fell in May on weak demand for transportation and defence capital goods, but growing order backlogs and lean inventories suggested the worst of the manufacturing downturn was probably over. Investors will be watching out for signs on the US Federal Reserve's thinking on rates from minutes of its June 14-15 meeting due later in the day. Holdings in SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, increased 3.02 per cent to 982.72 tonnes on Tuesday, the highest since June 2013. SPDR gold holdings have jumped more than 50 per cent this year so far, heading for biggest annual rise since 2006. Spot silver's rally hit a bump on Tuesday as the metal fell 2 per cent, its biggest one-day loss in about three weeks. It was up 1.7 per cent at $20.26. Among other precious metals, platinum, which was trading at two-month highs, edged 0.2 per cent lower to $1,070.24 an ounce. Palladium was up 0.3 per cent at $599.47. (Reuters)

Gold at highest in over two years over renewed Brexit concerns

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