The Indian rupee traded close to 95.5, easing slightly after earlier gains fueled by the Reserve Bank of India’s recent steps to attract capital inflows. Although the central bank’s measures initially lifted market sentiment and lent support to the currency, persistent headwinds have capped further appreciation.
Investor caution remained evident as foreign portfolio investors continued to pare their exposure to Indian equities. At the same time, steady dollar demand from importers and ongoing corporate hedging activity kept downward pressure on the rupee.
External conditions further weighed on the outlook. Intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East pushed crude oil prices higher, stoking concerns about India’s import bill and its impact on the currency.
Attention is now shifting to upcoming US inflation data. Any upside surprise in price pressures could strengthen expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates elevated for an extended period, supporting the dollar and adding to the strain on emerging-market currencies, including the rupee.
