Indian equity markets opened sharply higher on Wednesday, with the benchmark indices gaining nearly 1 per cent each as investors awaited the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision.

Sensex opened at 77,423.77, up 657.85 points or 0.86 per cent, while the Nifty started at 24,176.65, rising 191.30 points or 0.80 per cent.

Sector-wise, most indices traded in the green in early deals, led by Nifty IT which jumped over 2 per cent.

Meanwhile, Nifty MidSmall IT & Telecom gained 1 per cent, followed by Nifty Chemicals (0.99 per cent) and Nifty FMCG (0.81 per cent).

On the downside, Nifty Realty fell 0.39 per cent, while Nifty Oil & Gas slipped 0.15 per cent.

Analysts said global markets remained mixed ahead of the Fed’s policy decision and key corporate earnings, while higher Brent crude prices amid renewed geopolitical tensions could keep commodity prices volatile.