Gold Stands Firm Amid Iran Tensions and US Jobs Data

Gold prices have remained steady despite escalating tensions in the Middle East and upcoming US jobs data. The precious metal rose 0.2% to $4,061.96 per ounce by 0650 GMT on Tuesday.

Investors are weighing mixed signals from potential U.S.-Iran talks, with U.S. President Donald Trump saying negotiations were underway, but Iran denying any planned discussions.

Ajay Kedia, director at Mumbai-based Kedia Commodities, believes that weakness in the job market could pressure the US dollar and lead to gains in gold.

The Federal Reserve's interest rate trajectory is also a key focus, with reports on U.S. labour market due this week including job opening data, the ADP employment report on Wednesday, and nonfarm payrolls figures on Friday.