Indian rupee touched an all-time low against the U.S. dollar, even as USD/INR one-year forward implied rates fell 7 basis points to 2.68%. Traders confirmed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted buy-sell FX swaps across maturities to stabilize volatility.
India’s currency markets witnessed heightened activity today as the rupee hit a record low against the U.S. dollar, prompting intervention by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). According to Reuters updates on 21 January 2026, the USD/INR one-year forward implied rate dropped 7 basis points to 2.68%, reflecting weaker forward premiums despite the rupee’s slide.
Key highlights from the update:
-
Forward Premiums: The fall in premiums suggests reduced hedging costs for importers and exporters, though it also signals subdued demand for long-term dollar positions.
-
Rupee Movement: The currency’s decline to an all-time low underscores persistent pressure from global dollar strength and capital outflows.
-
RBI Intervention: Traders reported that the central bank conducted buy-sell FX swaps across various maturities, a move aimed at easing liquidity stress and curbing volatility.
-
Market Sentiment: While RBI’s actions provided temporary relief, analysts caution that sustained global headwinds could keep the rupee under pressure.
-
Strategic Outlook: The combination of falling premiums and RBI’s active management highlights the delicate balance between stabilizing the currency and maintaining forward market confidence.
This development underscores the RBI’s proactive stance in managing India’s external sector risks amid global financial uncertainty.
Sources: Reuters (RTRS), Economic Times, Business Standard