Gold prices are on track for a monthly loss of 12% despite persistent geopolitical uncertainties, as traders expect the Federal Reserve to hike interest rates this year. According to the CME FedWatch tool, traders expect three Federal Reserve rate hikes this year and are currently pricing in more than a 60% chance of a September increase. "Gold is likely to remain under pressure in the near term as easing energy prices, a resilient US dollar, and higher for longer interest rate expectations continue to reduce demand for non-yielding safe haven assets," analysts at MUFG say. In early European trading, New York gold futures rise 0.1% to $4,044.30 a troy ounce. (giulia.petroni@wsj.com)