BENGALURU (April 1): Gold prices edged a tick higher on Thursday, as expectations of a $2 trillion-plus stimulus plan in the United States raised concerns of inflation, while reports of a new vaccine-resistant virus strain also supported bullion's safe-haven appeal.

Spot gold was up 0.2% at $1,710.28 per ounce by 0156 GM, though it was set for its second straight weekly fall.