Rupee gains 6 paise/$ in early trade

The Indian rupee strengthened by 6 paise to Rs 44.72 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchange today, supported by a higher opening in the stock market.

However, the dollar's rise against other major currency rivals capped the rupee gains.

The rupee had appreciated by 5 paise to close at Rs 44.78/79 against the US currency in yesterday's trade amid bullish local equity markets and easing crude oil prices.

Forex dealers said a higher opening in the stock market helped the rupee gain some ground, but the dollar's strength against other currencies limited the gains.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex was up by 152.80 points, or 0.79%, at 19,273.60 in opening trade today.