Gold Steadies Near $4,000 as Inflation Keeps Rate-Hike Bets Firm

Gold steadied near $4,000 an ounce and was on track for a second monthly loss as energy-led inflation raised the prospects for a US rate increase before year-end. The precious metal's price has been pressured by expectations of tighter monetary policy, which typically boosts the dollar and weighs on gold. Investors are watching inflation data and central bank signals for further direction.