European stocks hit a two-week high

European stocks rose to their highest level in nearly two weeks on Wednesday, supported by health care stocks, as investors awaited a widely expected decision from the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged later on Wednesday.

The European STOXX 600 index rose 0.1 percent by 0825 GMT, heading for gains for the third day in a row.

Federal Reserve policymakers showed no sign of intention to change the current target range between 5.25 and 5.50 percent for short-term interest rates at their two-day meeting. The decision is expected to be issued at 1800 GMT.

Healthcare sector stocks led the gains, rising 1 percent, with GlaxoSmithKline rising 1.8 percent after it raised its full-year profit and sales forecast for the second time.

Danish Ørsted shares fell 20.1 percent to the bottom of the STOXX 600 index after the company failed to record expected profits in the third quarter and in light of a significant increase in impairment charges.

Shares of the Swedish construction company Skanska also fell 12.3 percent after announcing third-quarter operating profits that were much lower than expectations, influenced by weak real estate markets.