The Indian rupee fell to a fresh all-time low on Monday, trading above ₹90 against the US dollar, continuing a downward trend that has been building over recent sessions. In early trade, the currency slipped past ₹90.55 and later touched around ₹90.75 per dollar, reflecting persistent pressure from both global and domestic factors.
Market analysts attribute the slide to several key reasons. Uncertainty surrounding trade negotiations with the United States has unsettled investor sentiment, contributing to a cautious approach by both domestic and foreign investors. Foreign capital outflows have accelerated, as investors pull money from Indian equities and bonds, increasing demand for dollars and reducing support for the rupee.
Another factor adding to the rupee’s weakness is the country’s widening trade deficit. India imports more goods than it exports, which increases the need for foreign currency and puts additional downward pressure on the domestic currency. Despite the Reserve Bank of India occasionally intervening to stabilize the rupee, these measures have not been enough to reverse the trend amid sustained selling of the currency in global markets.
The weakness of the rupee also affected domestic equity markets. Key stock indices recorded losses as foreign investors continued to offload holdings, reflecting broader caution in the market. Economic experts note that while India’s macroeconomic fundamentals, including GDP growth, remain relatively strong, the currency market often reacts to short-term factors such as capital flows, trade developments, and global dollar strength.
For the general public and businesses, the falling rupee has practical implications. Imports, including fuel, electronics, and other goods, become more expensive, leading to potential increases in prices for consumers. On the other hand, exporters may benefit as a weaker rupee makes Indian products more competitive in international markets.
Overall, the rupee’s slide underscores the challenges facing India’s currency in a volatile global economic environment. Investors and policymakers will continue to monitor foreign investment flows, trade negotiations, and macroeconomic indicators closely to gauge the currency’s direction in the coming months.
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