Gold Ends Longest Slump in 19 Weeks on China Demand Signs

Gold rose, ending the longest slump in 19 weeks, on speculation that demand for bars and jewelry will increase in China after futures touched a seven-week low.

ANZ Banking Group Ltd. said today its gauge of demand increased late last month in China, the world’s biggest buyer. Iraq’s central bank plans to process 11 metric tons for public sale, and will import bars to sell to goldsmiths. The outlook for reduced U.S. monetary stimulus and higher borrowing costs helped push futures yesterday to the lowest since Feb. 11.