Rupee falls on $ demand from importers

The currency slips 19 paise to close at 54.37 against dollar

The rupee today fell 19 paise to close at 54.37 against the dollar due to month-end demand for the US currency from importers. However, persistent foreign fund inflows and weak dollar overseas restricted the rupee fall's to some extent, forex dealers said.

Bonds react downward
Government bonds reacted downwards on fresh selling pressure from banks and companies. The 8.15 per cent government security maturing in 2022 dropped to Rs 101.01 from Rs 101.28 previously, while its yield rose to 7.99 per cent from 7.95 per cent.

Call rates end higher
Overnight call money rates ended higher here today owing to good demand from borrowing banks. The rate finished higher at 7.80 per cent from 7.75 per cent previously.