On Wednesday, the US Federal Reserve left the key rate unchanged, which coincided with the expectations of analysts and investors. American and European stock indices reacted positively, closing in plus. At the close, the Dow Jones gained 0.47%, S&P 500 - 0.78%, Nasdaq - 1.07%. German DAX rose by 0.76%, British FTSE 100 - by 0.28%, French CAC 40 - by 0.65%.

The regulator began its rate hike cycle last March, when it was near 0%. Since then, it has raised it to record highs in an attempt to cope with booming consumer prices. It is now at its highest level since 2001 at 5 - 5.25%, notes investing.com.

The previous two meetings, as well as the last one, have passed without increases. The regulator's next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 12. According to the FedWatch tool, most market participants continue to expect the rate to be kept unchanged.