Indian Rupee Opens Slightly Lower at 88.7150 vs US Dollar; RBI Likely Selling Dollars to Support Currency Above Record Low

The Indian rupee (INR) began trading marginally lower at 88.7150 against the US dollar on November 14, 2025, maintaining pressure near its unprecedented low of 88.80 recorded recently. Market participants attribute this subdued performance to continuous dollar demand from importers coupled with cautious foreign portfolio flows.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been actively intervening in the forex market, with reports suggesting ongoing sales of US dollars to prevent further depreciation of the rupee. This intervention aims to stabilize the currency and control excessive volatility amidst external headwinds such as US tariffs on Indian exports and uneven global macroeconomic trends.

Analysts note that while intervention may provide short-term support, sustained pressure on the rupee could test RBI’s capacity as the central bank balances inflation control and growth support amid subdued capital inflows.

The market awaits clarity on upcoming monetary policy decisions, geopolitical developments, and potential US-India trade deal progress, which could influence the rupee’s trajectory in coming weeks.

Key Highlights:

INR opened at 88.7150 vs USD, close to record low of 88.80.

RBI reportedly selling US dollars to stabilize rupee amid high importer demand.

Persistent dollar demand and weak foreign portfolio flows weigh on INR.

Central bank intervention limits excessive currency volatility.

Market closely watches RBI policy stance and US-India trade talks.

Rupee movement reflects global macroeconomic uncertainties and trade pressures.

Sources: Trading Economics, Reuters, Bloomberg, Economic Times