PRECIOUS-Gold eases as buoyant dollar, U.S. aid doubts offset virus risks

* Palladium to test $2,600/oz by mid-2021 - UBS

* Physical gold consumption in China rebounds in 3Q

* Interactive graphic tracking global spread of coronavirus: https://graphics.reuters.com/world-coronavirus-tracker-and-maps/ (Adds analyst comments, updates prices)

By Asha Sistla

Oct 27 (Reuters) - Gold edged lower on Tuesday as a buoyant dollar and lack of progress on a U.S. stimulus package overshadowed fears of a second coronavirus wave and uncertainty about the U.S. presidential elections.

Spot gold fell 0.1% to $1,900.40 per ounce by 0942 GMT. U.S. gold futures were down 0.2% to $1,901.70.

"Gold has done most of its leg work for the year and seems to be trading in narrower ranges at the moment, responding to small moves in the dollar, which in turn is responding to small moves in possible political outcomes in regard to the U.S. election and also the stimulus plan," said independent analyst Ross Norman.

But rising coronavirus cases, especially in Europe, are keeping gold supported, more so because of the possible economic fallout, he added.

A fresh wave of infections has forced many countries, including Russia and France, to impose new restrictions, risking derailing any global economic recovery.

The dollar index held onto gains against rival currencies, denting the appeal of bullion. [USD/]

Negotiations over a new U.S. relief package remain in limbo with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressing hope that an agreement can be reached before the Nov. 3 presidential election, while White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow indicated that talks have slowed.

Gold, considered a hedge against inflation and currency debasement, has risen 25% this year, supported by massive government and central bank stimulus worldwide.

Gold consumption in China, traditionally the world's biggest consumer of bullion, rebounded in the third quarter, the China Gold Association said, while dealers in India have been banking on a festival-led demand boost.

Elsewhere, palladium rose 0.4% at $2,360.58 per ounce, while platinum gained 0.8% to $876.46.

Palladium could test $2,600 by mid-2021 bolstered by market tightness and stimulus measures, UBS said in a note.

Silver was flat at $24.31 per ounce. (Reporting by Asha Sistla in Bengaluru) ((Asha.Sistla@thomsonreuters.com; If within U.S. +1 646 223 8780; outside U.S. +91 80 6182 2808; Reuters Messaging: Reuters Messaging: asha.sistla.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net)) Keywords: GLOBAL PRECIOUS/ (UPDATE 4)

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