Indian Rupee Records Largest Single-Day Gain in 13 Years
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) The Indian Rupee experienced its largest single-day increase in almost 13 years on Thursday, closing at 93.10 against the US dollar. This remarkable rise is attributed to intensified measures by authorities aimed at curbing currency speculation.
The significant jump followed the Reserve Bank of India implementing stricter regulations in both domestic and offshore markets.
According to an analyst, "The surge was primarily influenced by a more favorable risk sentiment after US President Donald Trump’s speech, which suggested a focus on negotiations rather than further tensions, igniting a relief rally. Nonetheless, uncertainty remains high, contributing to ongoing volatility in currency markets."
During the day, the rupee peaked at 93.25, reflecting a 1.7 per cent surge, marking its most substantial increase since September 2013, as trading resumed after a three-day holiday.
The central bank recently prohibited banks from providing rupee non-deliverable forwards to both resident and non-resident clients and restricted companies from rebooking cancelled forward contracts.
Previous measures included limiting banks’ net open rupee positions to $100 million and banning foreign exchange derivative transactions with related parties.
These actions aim to diminish speculative activities in the currency market and stabilize the rupee.
Analysts have highlighted that India’s robust foreign exchange reserves, exceeding $700 billion, also act as a buffer against volatility, allowing the central bank to intervene if necessary.
The rupee’s rise occurred despite weak global cues, with Asian markets showing declines. Key indices, including Japan’s Nikkei, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, and South Korea’s KOSPI, fell by as much as 3 per cent due to escalating geopolitical tensions following President Trump’s warning of potential intensification in West Asia.
Meanwhile, crude oil prices surged sharply, further contributing to global uncertainty. Brent crude futures increased by 5.24 per cent to $106.47 per barrel, while US WTI futures rose by 4.5 per cent to $104.64.
Currency markets were closed earlier in the week for holidays, including Mahavir Jayanti and the start of the new financial year, and will be closed again on Friday for Good Friday.