Rupee breaches 55-level against dollar; down 35 paise

Forex dealers said besides dollar's gain against the euro in the overseas markets, increased demand for the American currency from importers and a lower opening in the stock market also put pressure on the domestic currency.

The BSE benchmark Sensex fell by 115.50 points, or 0.59 per cent, to 19,338.42 in the early trade.

The rupee had lost 30 paise to close 54.85 against the US dollar yesterday due to fresh demand for the US currency and some weakness in equities.