Rupee gains 9 paise against US dollar in early trade

The Indian rupee rose by 9 paise to Rs 45 against the US dollar today, extending its winning streak for the third consecutive session on the back of sustained dollar inflows into the domestic equity market and gains made by other Asian currencies.

In yesterday's session, the rupee had gained 13 paise to close at Rs45.09/10 against the dollar on the Interbank Foreign Exchange on sustained dollar-selling by exporters.

Dealers said a firming trend in other Asian currencies and sustained dollar inflows mainly kept the rupee sentiment firm. A higher opening in the stock market also supported the rupee's rise, they said.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange index Sensex opened 57.10 points, or 0.29%, higher at 20,072.90 in opening trade today.