London — Gold prices edged higher on Wednesday, underpinned by tension over North Korea, as investors looked ahead to US inflation data on Thursday that will give clues about the pace of US interest rate rises. Gold also benefited from weakness in global stocks, the dollar and US bond yields. A weaker dollar makes gold cheaper for holders of other currencies, while lower bond yields reduce the opportunity cost of holding nonyielding bullion. Spot gold was up 0.1% at $1,332.48 an ounce at 10.16am GMT after touching $1,322.15, the lowest since September 1, on Tuesday. US gold futures for December delivery were 0.3% higher at $1,336.70 an ounce. Demand for gold, seen as a safe investment in times of uncertainty, revived after US President Donald Trump pledged stronger measures against North Korea and Pyongyang promised to fight off what it said was the threat of a US invasion. Investors were taking advantage of a fall in prices from last Friday’s 13-month high of $1,357,54, said Robin ...

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.