Gold prices fluctuate as markets await Fed decision.

Gold and silver prices are down due to heavy profit-taking and position evening from futures traders ahead of the US interest rate decision by the Federal Reserve on Wednesday. The decision is still uncertain, but with a calmer marketplace, more market watchers are leaning towards a 0.25% Fed funds rate increase. Global stock markets were mixed to higher overnight, and the US stock indexes are higher at midday. The US dollar index is near steady, and Nymex crude oil futures prices are firmer. Technically, April gold futures bulls still have the firm overall near-term technical advantage, while May silver futures bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage.