US stocks rise ahead of Federal Reserve's decision

US indices opened higher on Wednesday, amid anticipation for the Federal Reserve's interest decision, and after the release of positive economic data.

The US retail sales index rose 0.6% in August, its third straight monthly increase, but came lower than forecasts of 1.1%, vs. 0.9% in July.

The US Federal Reserve will announce its rate decision later today, which is widely expected to keep the rate near zero within its efforts to support the economy in the fight against the coronavirus crisis.

Fed Chairman Jerome Powell will hold a press conference following the decision to comment on monetary policy and the latest economic developments.

As for stocks, Dow Jones rose 0.4% or 105 points to 28,100 as of 14:15 GMT, Nasdaq rose 0.2% or 29 points to 11,219 , and S&P 500 rose 0.3% or 30 points to 3,413.