The Indian rupee weakened toward 90 per USD post-RBI's 25 bps repo cut to 5.25%, trading at 89.84-89.95 despite initial recovery. Persistent FII outflows, US trade tensions, and dollar strength override easing cheers, with RBI interventions limiting sharper fall.
Post-Cut Reaction
USD/INR climbed back near 90 after RBI's unanimous rate reduction, erasing early gains from 89.72 pre-announcement. Rupee hit 89.8450 (down from 89.7850), reflecting market disappointment over neutral stance amid record lows of 90.42 earlier. Dollar index firmness and FII selling (₹25k Cr Dec) dominate.
Market Dynamics
Rate cut boosted equities (Nifty Financials +0.65%) but pressured currency via capital flow concerns. RBI's OMO (₹1 lakh Cr) and USD/INR swaps aim liquidity support, yet US tariff risks, crude spikes weigh. Traders eye 89.80-90.50 range; interventions cap volatility.
Key Highlights
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Current Level: ~89.84-89.95 (near 90 post-cut).
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Pre-Cut: 89.72; intraday low 90.42 prior day.
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Triggers: FII outflows, US trade delays, dollar strength.
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RBI Tools: Interventions, OMO ₹1L Cr, swaps.
Sources: MarketScreener, Economic Times, Moneycontrol