RBI Rate Decision Bolsters Indian Rupee Amid Strong Capital Inflows
The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) decision to hold the repo rate at 5.25% has provided support for the Indian Rupee (INR) against the US Dollar (USD). Lower oil prices and strong capital inflows have put India's balance of payments on track for a healthy surplus.
The RBI recently attracted nearly USD41bn of capital inflows, which can support banking system liquidity. This includes USD36.7bn from FCNR deposits, USD2.57bn through overseas foreign currency borrowings, and USD1.5bn raised through swap facilities from External Commercial Borrowings.
RBI Governor Sanjay emphasized that the exchange rate should remain market-determined, while the RBI would curb excessive volatility and prevent moves detached from fundamentals. The INR has a firmer near-term buffer thanks to lower oil prices and rising reserves.