July 31 (Reuters) - Canada's main stock index dipped on Wednesday ahead of a crucial interest rate decision from the U.S. Federal Reserve.
* The U.S. Federal Reserve is almost certain to cut interest rates by at least quarter-percentage-point for the first time in more than a decade on Wednesday, delivering a mild jolt to an economy that is facing headwinds from trade disputes. The central bank is scheduled to release its rates decision at 2 p.m. ET (1800 GMT) at the end of a two-day policy meeting.
* A bright spot was data that showed Canada's economy grew by a higher-than-expected 0.2% in May, the third increase in as many months, thanks to a rebound in manufacturing. Brian DePratto, a senior economist with TD Economics, noted the current economic backdrop "should give the Bank of Canada some near-term comfort in 'going it alone' and holding its stance of monetary policy constant as its peers ease."
* At 9:45 a.m. ET (13:45 GMT), the Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index .GSPTSE was down 16.02 points, or 0.1%, at 16,450.03.
* The energy sector .SPTTEN climbed 0.8%, as U.S. crude CLc1 prices were up 0.8% a barrel, while Brent crude LCOc1 added 0.7%. O/R
* On the TSX, 106 issues were higher, while 122 issues declined for a 1.15-to-1 ratio to the downside, with 18.69 million shares traded.
* The largest percentage gainers on the TSX were Seven Generations Energy Ltd VII.TO , which jumped 14.6% after reporting second-quarter results.
* Home Capital Group Inc HCG.TO , which rose 9.6%, was among the top percentage gainers on the main index.
* Overnight air cargo services Cargojet CJT.TO fell 5.7%, the most on the TSX, while the second-biggest decliner was Intact Financial Corp IFC.TO , down 4.0%, after they reported quarterly results.
* The most heavily traded shares by volume were Encana Corp ECA.TO , MEG Energy Corp MEG.TO and Northern Dynasty Minerals NDM.TO .
* The TSX posted nine new 52-week highs and no new low.
* Across all Canadian issues, there were 21 new 52-week highs and six new lows, with total volume of 30.01 million shares.