<h1>Equity indices rise as 30-share jumps 355.97 and 50-share posts eighth straight gain on rate cut hopes</h1> Equity benchmarks advanced, with the 30-share index rising 355.97 points to 81,904.70 and the 50-share index gaining 108.50 points to 25,114, marking the latter's eighth consecutive up day; gains were attributed to expectations of an imminent US interest-rate cut and progress in bilateral trade talks. Several large-cap firms outperformed while others lagged. Foreign institutional investors net-sold about Rs 3,472 crore while domestic institutions net-bought about Rs 4,046 crore. Regional markets were mixed and Brent crude edged up to roughly USD 66.72 per barrel.