The Indian rupee appreciated by 28 paise to trade at 92.86 against the US dollar in early trading on Friday, buoyed by decreasing geopolitical tensions and a positive outlook in domestic equity markets.
Foreign investment in Indian equities contributed to the rupee’s strength, even as it faced pressure from a robust US dollar, according to forex traders. The rupee opened at 92.93 in the interbank foreign exchange market and improved to 92.86, marking an increase of 28 paise from the previous closing value. On Thursday, the rupee had strengthened by 19 paise, finishing at 93.14 against the dollar.
The dollar index, which measures the strength of the greenback against a basket of six other currencies, rose by 0.05 percent to 98.07. In parallel, Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, saw a 1.16 percent decline, trading at $98.24 per barrel.
Analysts noted a drop in crude oil prices below the $100-per-barrel mark, fueled by expectations that the ongoing crisis in West Asia may soon reach a resolution.
Recent geopolitical developments included a call from China, an ally of Iran and the largest importer of Iranian oil, urging Tehran to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital international trade route. Additionally, Israel and Lebanon have reached a 10-day ceasefire agreement, potentially aiding peace efforts in the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
On the domestic stock market, the 30-share Sensex rose by 176.08 points or 0.23 percent to 78,164.76, while the Nifty increased by 33.90 points or 0.14 percent to 24,232.60 in early trade.
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) turned net buyers on Thursday, acquiring equities worth ₹382.36 crore, according to data from exchanges.
Published on April 17, 2026.
