Gold Prices Climb as Rate Hike Fears Eased, Fed Minutes Awaited

Gold prices rose for the third consecutive session on Tuesday as fears of an imminent US interest rate hike eased, sending investors searching for fresh clues from the Federal Reserve's latest meeting minutes.

The spot price of gold climbed 0.4% to $4,431.09 per ounce at 0037 GMT, while U.S. gold futures for December delivery edged 0.3% higher to $4,487.70.

A Reuters poll found that most economists believe the US central bank will keep its key interest rate unchanged next month and through year-end.

Market pricing for a September quarter-point hike flipped to a near-65% chance of a hold after unexpected job losses in July, lower-than-expected consumer price inflation, and weaker retail sales.