Rupee gains 9 paise against US dollar in early trade

Mumbai, Feb 25 (PTI) The Indian rupee appreciated by 9paise to Rs 45.39 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchangetoday, supported by a higher opening in the stock market anddollar weakness against other currencies overseas.

The rupee had lost 36 paise to close at Rs 45.48/49 adollar in the previous session due to heavy month-end dollardemand from importers and a steep fall in the domestic equitymarket.

Forex dealers said dollar weakness against othercurrencies and a higher opening in the stock market kept therupee sentiment firm.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex was up by166.87 points at 17,799.28 in opening trade today.