Gold prices were little changed on Thursday as stronger equities and upbeat U.S. data countered fears that the fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak would slow the global economy. Spot gold was up 0.1% at $1,637.80 per ounce. U.S. gold futures were down 0.2% to $1,693.10. Asian shares were looking to rally for a fourth straight session as U.S. markets swung sharply higher and another dose of central bank stimulus offered some salve for the global economic outlook. U.S. services sector activity jumped to a one-year high in February, data showed, suggesting strength in the economy before a recent escalation of recession fears ignited by the epidemic that prompted an emergency interest rate cut. The global spread of the virus has crushed hopes for stronger growth this year and will hold 2020 global output gains to their slowest pace since the 2008-2009 financial crisis, the International Monetary Fund’s managing director said. Euro zone businesses largely withstood the impact of the virus in February, growing at their fastest pace in six months, though a survey on Wednesday painted a gloomier outlook, with falling export demand and disruptions to supply chains.