<h1>Markets open higher as Fed rate-cut hopes and upcoming GST cut expected to boost auto, consumer durable demand</h1> Benchmark equity indices opened higher, tracking positive global cues and market expectations of a US central bank rate cut later this month, with domestic early-session gains partly attributed to a recent domestic goods and services tax reduction expected to boost demand for autos and consumer durables when it takes effect on September 22. Early trade showed index advances and mixed sector performance, while soft US payroll data heightened rate-cut hopes. Foreign institutional investors were net sellers on Friday while domestic institutions were net buyers. Oil prices rose modestly. Prior session closes were marginally mixed, reflecting cautious sentiment amid macroeconomic data and policy anticipation.