Rupee gains 19 paise against dollar, at Rs 45.56

The Indian rupee gained 19 paise to Rs 45.56 against the US dollar in early trade at the Interbank Foreign Exchange on Wednesday, supported by a higher opening in the stock market and weakness of the American currency against the euro.

The Indian currency had appreciated 15 paise to close at Rs 45.75/76 against the US currency yesterday on the back of fresh dollar-selling by exporters, even as the equity market experienced sharp losses.

Dealers said in addition to dollar weakness against other currency rivals overseas, a higher opening in the stock market on Wednesday boosted the rupee sentiment.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex shot up 219.18 points, or 1.21 per cent, to 18,241.40 in opening trade.