<h1>Domestic equities rise as real estate, utilities and blue-chip sectors lead gains; FIIs net buyers amid trade optimism</h1> Benchmark domestic equity indices opened higher, with the large-cap gauge rising about 0.36% and the broader index up roughly 0.28%, driven by buying in real estate and utilities stocks. Several blue-chip constituents in power, ports, banking, and consumer sectors led gains while select metals, IT, finance and telecom names lagged. A major IT firm reported stronger-than-expected quarterly revenue and margins, yet its share fell modestly. Foreign institutional investors were net buyers of domestic equities to the tune of about Rs 1,308 crore. Market participants cited potential bilateral trade developments and shifts in FII strategy as supportive factors.