Re falls as $ demand exceeds supply

Falling for the second straight day, the rupee today declined by five paise to end at 54.37 as dollar demand exceeded supply, amid renewed speculation that the Reserve Bank of India will cut interest rates next week.

Strong dollar abroad after February US retail sales exceeded forecasts also weighed on the rupee even as a sharp recovery was seen in local stocks, a forex dealer said.

Bonds recover on good demand
Government securities (G-sec) rose on good buying support from banks and companies.

The 8.15 per cent G-sec maturing in 2022 shot up to Rs 101.83 from Rs 101.58 yesterday, while its yield moved down to 7.87 per cent from 7.90 per cent.

The 8.20 per cent G-sec maturing in 2025 surged to Rs 101.83 from Rs 101.63, while its yield went down to 7.97 per cent from 7.99 per cent. The 8.33 per cent G-sec maturing in 2026 also climbed to Rs 102.96 from Rs 102.75, while its yield declined to 7.96 per cent from 7.99 per cent.

Call rates end lower
Call money rates ended lower here today due to lack of demand from borrowing banks amid ample liquidity in the banking system.

The rate finished lower at 7.75 per cent from previous close of 7.90 per cent.