* Silver on track for best month on record
* Dollar hits over two-year low, eyes worst month in decade
* Interactive graphic tracking global spread of coronavirus: open https://tmsnrt.rs/3aIRuz7 in an external browser (Updates prices)
By Brijesh Patel
July 31 (Reuters) - Gold rose on Friday en route to its best month in 8-1/2 years as the dollar slid further after dismal U.S. data added to doubts about a swift recovery from the pandemic-induced economic slump, driving investors towards the safe-haven metal.
Spot gold XAU= was up 0.8% at $1,975.44 per ounce by 0651 GMT after snapping a nine-session winning streak on Thursday. U.S. gold futures GCcv1 rose 1.5% to $1,970.70.
The U.S. dollar .DXY fell to a two-year low and was on course for its worst month in a decade, making bullion cheaper for investors holding other currencies. USD/
Apart from U.S. data showing the deepest economic contraction in at least 73 years in the second quarter, and a rise in unemployment benefits, the dollar was also hurt as President Donald Trump raised the idea of delaying the Nov. 3 presidential election. weak Q2 GDP also underscores the point of a weak economy, and investors seeking refuge in gold," said National Australia Bank economist John Sharma.
A deterioration in the coronavirus situation, escalation in geopolitical tensions and further declines in the dollar could push gold above the $2,000 level, he added.
Gold has risen nearly 11% so far this month, its biggest monthly percentage gain since January 2012, having soared to an all-time high of $1,980.57 on Tuesday.
The jump took gains for the year to nearly 30%, driven by a worsening pandemic and low interest rates globally amid widespread stimulus from central banks since the metal is considered a refuge against inflation and currency debasement.
"However, further gains are reliant on investor demand, with consumer demand showing no signs of recovery," ANZ analysts said in a note. GOL/AS
Among other metals, silver XAG= climbed 2.6% to $24.16 an ounce, on course for its best month on record - up over 30%, with additional support coming from hopes for a revival in industrial activity. XPT= rose 0.8% to $909.98 and palladium XPD= gained 0.7% to $2,096.84.