Gold edged higher before the release of U.S. inflation data.

Gold in Asia's early trading rose slightly as investors awaited U.S. inflation data for clues about the Federal Reserve's policy trajectory. Tony Sage, CEO of Critical Metals, stated in a report that stronger data could reinforce tighter policy and put further pressure on gold. He added that, on the other hand, weaker results might bring some relief. Interest rate cuts generally benefit non-yielding gold. Spot gold was up 0.2%, trading at $4,380.12 per ounce.