US equities futures are rising ahead of a Federal Reserve meeting that is likely to result in a significant interest-rate rise. An Asia-Pacific share index changed slightly, with Chinese technology firms and Hong Kong topping the gainers. US stocks fell for the fifth consecutive day, the biggest losing stretch since January. A carefully studied portion of the US yield curve abruptly inverted on Tuesday, reflecting fears that tight policies will suffocate the economy.
Across the water, European stocks are set for a higher open ahead of the meeting, with London's FTSE index 15 points higher at 7204, Germany's DAX up 54 points at 13,353, and Italy's FTSE MIB 120 points higher at 21,904
