Gold edges up as weaker dollar offsets news on Trump's progress

Gold inched up on Monday as the dollar weakened, although gains were limited as news that U.S. President Donald Trump, receiving treatment for COVID-19, could be released from hospital boosted risk sentiment.

Spot gold was up 0.1pc at $1,900.46 per ounce by 0954 GMT. U.S. gold futures were down 0.2pc at $1,904.50.

"There are two opposing forces at work in the gold market, on the one hand we've the perception that the U.S. president is doing better and that he may be released from the hospital today and that's driving positive risk sentiment," said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo.

And, on the other hand, "we see the dollar has started to weaken again and this is offsetting the losses from the risk-on sentiment," he added.

Global stocks rose on Monday after news that Trump could be discharged from hospital as soon as Monday, although outside experts warned that his case may be severe.

The dollar was down 0.3pc against rivals, making gold cheaper for holders of other currencies.

Meanwhile, reinforcing the economic damage from the coronavirus, data showed the euro zone's economic recovery faltered in September.

Investors are now focused on new U.S. coronavirus relief aid aimed at cushioning the economic blow from the pandemic.

"There is need for new stimulus measures to rally (gold) prices. Without this mojo, there are signs of fatigue creeping into precious metals," Avtar Sandu, a senior commodities manager at Phillip Futures, said in a note.

Gold has risen about 25pc this year, supported by massive stimulus by governments and central banks worldwide as the metal is seen as a hedge against inflation and currency debasement.

Elsewhere, silver gained 1.1pc to $23.95 per ounce, platinum rose 0.1pc to $882.41 and palladium climbed 0.7pc to $2,325.07.