Forex Flow Falters: India’s Reserves Slip Again in November

Updated: November 15, 2025 04:08

Image Source: NDTV

ndia’s foreign exchange reserves fell by US $2.7 billion to US $687 billion in the week ending November 7, 2025, marking the third consecutive weekly decline. The drop was driven by lower foreign currency assets and gold reserves, reflecting global currency movements and ongoing external pressures monitored by the RBI.

India’s foreign exchange reserves, often seen as a buffer against external shocks, continued their downward trajectory in early November. According to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), reserves fell by US $2.699 billion to US $687.034 billion in the week ending November 7, 2025.

This marks the third straight weekly decline, following a sharper fall of US $5.6 billion in the previous week. The latest dip was largely attributed to a reduction in foreign currency assets (FCA) and gold holdings, underscoring the impact of global currency fluctuations and commodity price adjustments.

Despite the decline, India’s reserves remain at historically high levels, providing adequate cover for imports and external debt obligations. However, the trend highlights the sensitivity of the forex kitty to global market dynamics, particularly the strength of the US dollar against other major currencies.

Notable Updates

•⁠ ⁠Foreign Currency Assets: FCA, the largest component of reserves, fell by US $2.454 billion to US $562.137 billion, reflecting currency movements in the euro, pound, and yen against the dollar.

•⁠ ⁠Gold Reserves: Value of gold holdings decreased by US $195 million to US $101.531 billion, mirroring global price corrections.

•⁠ ⁠Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): SDRs slipped by US $51 million to US $18.594 billion.

•⁠ ⁠IMF Position: India’s reserve position with the IMF remained unchanged at US $4.772 billion.

•⁠ ⁠Weekly Trend: This was the third consecutive weekly fall, extending a steady downward trajectory in November.

Major Takeaways

•⁠ ⁠Global Impact: Currency fluctuations and gold price volatility are key drivers of the decline.

•⁠ ⁠Resilience Factor: Despite the fall, reserves remain robust enough to cover external obligations.

•⁠ ⁠Policy Watch: The RBI continues to monitor developments closely, balancing intervention with reserve management.

•⁠ ⁠Market Sensitivity: The trend underscores India’s exposure to global financial conditions, especially dollar strength.

Why It Matters

Forex reserves are a critical indicator of economic stability, influencing investor confidence, currency strength, and India’s ability to withstand external shocks. While the current levels remain comfortable, the continued weekly decline signals caution, reminding policymakers and businesses alike of the importance of prudent external management in a volatile global environment.

Sources: Economic Times, Outlook Business

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