European stocks mixed in opening deals

Europe`s main stock markets diverged at the start of trade on Thursday, as comments by the US Federal Reserve cooled expectations of an early rate hike.

London`s benchmark FTSE 100 index rose 0.28 percent to stand at 6,964.48 points, Frankfurt`s DAX 30 index fell 0.21 percent to 11,897.48 points and the CAC 40 in Paris eased 0.07 percent to 5,029.97 compared with Wednesday`s close.

After a two-day policy meeting, the Fed issued a statement that removed a pledge to remain "patient" on raising interest rates, signalling a possible mid-year rate increase.

But bank chair Janet Yellen stressed growth prospects were more muted than three months ago, despite strong increases in jobs creation. She noted consumer spending has slipped, inflation has declined, wages are flat, and the stronger dollar has hurt US exports.