Asian markets trading flat in early session, gold holds steady, US government shutdown expected to end

In early Asian trading, gold prices held steady as the U.S. government shutdown is likely to end. Spot gold was mostly unchanged, at $4,193.05 per ounce. The House of Representatives is expected to approve a spending bill on Wednesday evening to reopen the government, extending funding until January 30. Antonio Di Giacomo of XS.com stated that the resumption of government operations will allow key economic data to be released, which the Federal Reserve will consider before making its next interest rate decision. The senior market analyst added that strong volatility is expected this week, as investors closely monitor any signals regarding the outlook for interest rates.