How is the Indian Rupee Performing Against the US Dollar Amid Tariff Concerns?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Indian rupee opened stronger at 87.53 against the US dollar.
- Proposed 25 percent tariffs could negatively impact the rupee.
- Upcoming US-Russia negotiations may influence market sentiment.
- Critical inflation data is set to be released on August 12 and 14.
- Sector-specific impacts include textiles, leather, and seafood.
New Delhi, Aug 11 (NationPress) The Indian rupee has opened on a stronger note this Monday, despite the proposed 25 percent tariff by US President Donald Trump on India, which is scheduled to take effect on August 27.
Optimism surrounding the potential resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, anticipated to be discussed during the upcoming US-Russia negotiations on August 15, likely contributed to the rupee's uptick, as it could lead to the removal of additional tariffs affecting India.
The local currency began trading 13 paise higher at 87.53 against the US dollar, climbing from 87.66 on Friday. Analysts predict that the immediate trading range will fluctuate between 87.25 and 87.80.
Today, the Indian rupee was expected to record modest gains at 87.51, with market participants eagerly awaiting both US and domestic inflation data. The Indian markets are particularly focused on the CPI and WPI inflation figures scheduled for release on August 12 and August 14.
Should the proposed tariffs come into effect, they are likely to exert pressure on the Indian rupee against the US dollar in the short term, primarily due to diminished export revenues, capital outflows, and inflationary pressures.
The new tariffs imposed by the US are anticipated to impact various sectors, including textiles, leather, and seafood. India has sharply criticized these tariffs, labeling them as unfair and unreasonable. Notably, the US has assigned India the highest tariff rate of 50 percent, contrasting with 30 percent for China and 15 percent for Turkey, despite all three nations importing Russian oil.
In Asian trading on Monday morning, Brent oil prices fell to $66.25 per barrel, continuing last week’s significant downturn as traders speculated that upcoming discussions between Russia and the US may alleviate the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
China's recently released inflation data and economic indicators for July showed a slow recovery in its economy, leading to a pessimistic outlook for future oil demand.
Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) selling persisted throughout the week in Indian equity markets, indicating a broader risk aversion among emerging markets. However, ongoing purchases by Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) helped to cushion losses.