- Key Drivers
- The rupee appreciated for the third consecutive session, reflecting improved sentiment toward the domestic currency.
- The dollar index fell by 0.2% to 103.5, close to a five-month low, weakening the greenback globally.
- Local Market Dynamics
- Exporter and foreign bank dollar sales supported the rupee, indicating strong supply of dollars in the market.
- The rupee touched an intraday high of 86.76, the strongest in three weeks, before settling slightly lower at 86.80 per dollar (previous close: 87).
- Global Context
- The dollar index’s decline indicates market anticipation of a potentially dovish outcome from the upcoming US Federal Reserve meeting.
- Lower expectations for aggressive rate hikes in the US have reduced demand for the dollar globally.
- Market Sentiment
- Traders are cautious and await the US Fed’s policy decision for further direction.
- Positive rupee movement reflects investor confidence in India’s external stability, supported by steady foreign inflows and controlled trade deficits.
