USD/INR currency fluctuation exchange rates
February 24, 2024
Predicting future exchange rates, such as the USD/INR (United States Dollar to Indian Rupee), is highly speculative and subject to a wide range of factors. These factors include economic indicators, geopolitical events, interest rates, inflation rates, central bank policies, and market sentiment, among others. As of update in Dec 2023, here are some considerations that may impact future USD/INR rate expectations:
Factors Influencing USD/INR Exchange Rate:
- US Federal Reserve Policy: The monetary policy decisions of the US Federal Reserve, particularly regarding interest rates and bond-buying programs, can impact the strength of the USD. Higher interest rates usually strengthen the USD against other currencies.
- Indian Economy and RBI Policy: Economic indicators in India, such as GDP growth, inflation rates, and trade balances, influence the INR. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) policy decisions, particularly on interest rates, also play a significant role.
- Global Commodity Prices: India is a major importer of commodities, particularly oil. Fluctuations in global oil prices can affect India’s trade balance and the value of the INR.
- Geopolitical Events: Events such as political instability, trade tensions, or conflicts can create uncertainty in currency markets, affecting the USD/INR rate.
- COVID-19 and Economic Recovery: The pace of global economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, including in India and the US, can impact currency valuations.
- Inflation Differentials: Variances in inflation rates between the US and India can affect currency exchange rates.
- Investor Sentiment and Risk Appetite: Market sentiment and investors’ risk appetite influence capital flows into and out of countries, impacting currency valuations.
Recent Trends (Up to Dec 2023):
- In 2021, the USD/INR exchange rate saw fluctuations. The INR appreciated against the USD in the first half of the year due to strong foreign portfolio investments, robust exports, and a weak dollar globally.
- However, the latter half of 2021 saw the INR weakening against the USD due to concerns about the economic impact of the COVID-19 Delta variant, rising crude oil prices, and the US Federal Reserve’s plans to taper its bond-buying program.
Future Expectations (Post January 2024):
- Tapering by the US Federal Reserve: If the Federal Reserve continues to taper its bond-buying program and raises interest rates, this could strengthen the USD against the INR.
- Oil Prices: Movements in global oil prices will continue to impact India’s trade balance and the INR.
- COVID-19 Recovery: India’s economic recovery from the pandemic and its impact on growth and inflation will be closely watched.
- Geopolitical Events: Any significant geopolitical events, such as tensions in the Middle East or trade disputes, could influence the exchange rate.