European Shares Rise as Investors Await Federal Reserve Policy Announcement

European shares rose on Wednesday ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decision, which is likely to tilt the pandemic’s stimulus back at a faster pace to counter growing inflation risks.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose 0.5 percent to 471.84 points. Stock markets across Asia fell as weaker-than-expected Chinese retail sales data in November dampened sentiment.

The technology, utilities, and auto sectors supported the index, while mining and energy stocks declined.