Gold prices edged up to around $3,970 per ounce on Wednesday, stabilizing after recent declines as investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s expected rate cut later in the day.

Markets are also focused on Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks for clues on future policy moves, with traders already pricing in another rate reduction in December.

Meanwhile, optimism over a potential US–China trade breakthrough limited safe-haven demand. Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are reportedly nearing a framework deal that would pause further US tariffs and ease China’s rare earth export restrictions.

Despite recent volatility, gold remains on track for a third straight monthly gain and is up nearly 50% year-to-date, underpinned by central bank buying, geopolitical tensions, and fears of currency debasement.