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Indian Rupee Falls to 96.25 Record Low as Oil Prices Rise
Higher crude prices, a stronger dollar and West Asia tensions pushed the rupee to a record low, while the Sensex fell 833.20 points, traders said.
The Indian rupee crashed to a fresh record low of 96.25 against the USD in early trade on Monday, falling 44 paise from its previous close during the fifth consecutive session of losses.
Elevated Brent crude prices beyond $111.50 per barrel, combined with the ongoing conflict in West Asia, intensified pressure on the rupee as India imports 88% of its crude needs through vulnerable supply routes.
Domestic equity markets reacted sharply as the Sensex tanked 833.20 points to 74,404.79, The Nifty fell 234 points to 23,401.70, and The India VIX index spiked 6.5% during the session.
To control forex outflows, the government hiked import duties on gold and silver from 6% to 15% on May 13, with an effective duty of over 18% including IGST to curb non-essential imports.
Anil Kumar Bhansali Head of Executive Director Finrex Treasury Advisors LLP warned the rupee could hit 100 unless the West Asia conflict stops, though Amit Pabari of Forex Advisors said the Reserve Bank is taking proactive measures.