Representational Image.

Mumbai

: BSE Sensex and Nifty opened low on Thursday as the US Federal Reserve hints at December rate hike. Sensex showed a downfall of 40 points, while Nifty neared 8,150 points.

Asian shares were lackluster after Federal Reserve policymakers left interest rates unchanged at a record low but indicated they could raise the benchmark rate at their December meeting if the US economy keeps improving.

In its latest statement, the Fed eliminated language expressing concern about the global economy and Fed Chair Janet Yellen has previously said she wants to start raising rates this year. The Fed cut its benchmark interest rate to almost zero in late 2008 to stimulate the economy during the Great Recession. Low interest rates have been a boon for stock markets for several years.

On Thursday morning, rupee opened lower at 65.15 per dollar against Wednesday's close of 64.92.

Sensex closed 213.68 points down at 27,039.76 on October 28 while Nifty closed 61.70 points down at 8,171.