* Palladium to test $2,600/oz by mid-2021 - UBS
* Physical gold consumption in China rebounds in Q3
* Interactive graphic tracking global spread of coronavirus: https://graphics.reuters.com/world-coronavirus-tracker-and-maps/ (Updates prices)
By Asha Sistla
Oct 27 (Reuters) - Gold held steady on Tuesday as a buoyant dollar and lack of progress on a U.S. stimulus package countered fears of a second coronavirus wave and uncertainty about the U.S. presidential elections.
Spot gold XAU= was flat at $1,902.31 per ounce at 1135 GMT. U.S. gold futures GCv1 were down 0.1% to $1904.30.
"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. dollar index .DXY 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. 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. GOL/AS palladium XPD= remained unchanged at $2,352.64 per ounce, while platinum XPT= rose 0.5% to $873.68.
Palladium could test $2,600 by mid-2021 bolstered by market tightness and stimulus measures, UBS said in a note. XAG= was flat at $24.31 per ounce.