Rupee Opens 7 Paisa Lower At 90.72 Against the U.S. Dollar

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Last Updated: 17th February 2026 - 05:37 pm

The rupee opened at 90.72 per U.S. dollar on February 17, down 7 paisa from its previous close of 90, according to interbank foreign exchange market data.

The currency movement comes after India’s merchandise trade deficit widened to $34.68 billion in January, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. A wider trade deficit increases demand for dollars to pay for imports.

Trade Deficit And Dollar Index

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported that the January merchandise trade deficit stood at $34.68 billion. The data reflects higher import payments relative to exports during the month.

The U.S. dollar index, which tracks the greenback against six major currencies, stood at 97.12, compared with 96.97 in the previous session, according to Reuters data. The index movement followed U.S. inflation data released last week that indicated softer price pressures.

RBI Intervention And Market Range

The rupee has traded within a narrow band of about 20 paisa in recent sessions, according to market data. The Reserve Bank of India has intervened in the spot and offshore non-deliverable forwards markets in recent weeks to manage volatility, as reported by Reuters.

The dollar has also been able to hold its own against the rupee in the domestic market because importers want a lot of dollars.

Asian Market Signs

The Asian currency markets didn't move much on February 17 because signals from around the world were weak. According to Reuters, several regional markets were still affected by global macroeconomic data and changes in the U.S. dollar.

The rupee opened at 90.72, which shows that external trade and the strength of the dollar are still putting pressure on it. Based on official releases and market data, currency movements will continue to follow trade data, dollar index levels, and central bank activity.
 

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