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Rupee Crosses 91 per Dollar: Record Low and Causes

17 December 20251 min read
ECONOMYRupee Crosses 91per Dollar: RecordLow and Causes17 December 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

The rupee slid past 91 to the dollar in trade and ended at a new low, the worst showing among Asian currencies this year.

Key facts

  • Intraday low: 91.14; close: 90.93.
  • Outflows: FPI selling of roughly $2.7 billion, among the biggest monthly exits of 2025.
FactorEffect
India-US trade deal uncertainty, global trade tensionsWeaker sentiment, more risk aversion
FPI capital outflowsPressure on the rupee
Rising US bond yields, expected Bank of Japan hikeYen carry trade unwinds; emerging-market assets sold

RBI’s stance

  • Restrained intervention looks deliberate, given strong growth and controlled inflation.
  • A weaker rupee supports exports; the currency adjusts within limits.

Background

  • Analysts say earlier tight control near ₹83 per dollar limited flexibility.

Exam angle

  • Close: 90.93.
  • Yen carry trade unwinding added pressure.

Test yourself

1. At what level did the rupee close against the US dollar after touching 91.14 intraday?

The rupee closed at 90.93 per dollar.

2. Roughly how much did FPIs withdraw in the first two weeks of December, pressuring the rupee?

FPIs withdrew about $2.7 billion.

3. The rupee became which of these in 2025 after breaching 91 per dollar?

It became the weakest Asian currency in 2025.