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ONLiNE UPSC
The Indian rupee has seen significant fluctuations recently, particularly experiencing depreciation against the US dollar. After a period of appreciation, it has fallen below the critical psychological level of 83. This change has raised concerns regarding its future trajectory and overall economic implications.
Several key factors are influencing the rupee's decline:
The upcoming Jackson Hole symposium is expected to have significant implications for the rupee. With the US Federal Reserve Chairman likely to adopt a hawkish stance, this could lead to a stronger dollar, thereby impacting the rupee's performance further.
The disparity in interest rates between the US and India plays a critical role in currency valuation. As the interest rate gap widens, dollar-denominated assets become more appealing, leading to greater demand for dollars and, consequently, rupee depreciation.
A weaker rupee poses challenges for India, an import-dependent country. It can lead to increased costs for raw materials and production, affecting the profitability of domestic companies and the broader economy.
While a depreciated rupee can potentially enhance export competitiveness, subdued global demand may limit the advantages for exporters. Therefore, the overall impact on exports remains complex.
Discussions around the rupee's internationalization have gained momentum, with an RBI-appointed committee suggesting that enhancing its presence in international trade could be beneficial. This could lead to increased usage and recognition of the rupee globally.
However, internationalizing the rupee may also introduce higher volatility, as increased currency movement can lead to unpredictable fluctuations.
To stabilize the rupee, it is essential to strengthen its value gradually against the dollar while effectively managing interest rates. This approach can help prevent excessive fluctuations and enhance economic stability.
Q1. What are the recent trends in the Indian rupee's value against the US dollar?
Answer: The Indian rupee has recently depreciated, falling below 83 against the US dollar after a period of appreciation, raising concerns about its future performance.
Q2. What factors are contributing to the rupee's depreciation?
Answer: Key factors include a strong US dollar, foreign capital outflows, rising global crude oil prices, and inflation, all contributing to the rupee's decline.
Q3. How does the Jackson Hole symposium affect the rupee?
Answer: The symposium's hawkish outlook from the US Federal Reserve Chairman could further strengthen the US dollar, adversely impacting the rupee.
Q4. What are the implications of a weaker rupee for India's economy?
Answer: A weaker rupee can increase costs for imports, affecting domestic production and leading to broader economic challenges.
Q5. How does a weaker rupee impact exports?
Answer: While it may boost exports by making them cheaper abroad, subdued global demand can limit the potential benefits for exporters.
Question 1: What recent trend has been observed in the Indian rupee?
A) Appreciation against the US dollar
B) Depreciation below 83 against the US dollar
C) Stability at 83 against the US dollar
D) Volatility with no clear trend
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which factor is NOT contributing to the rupee's depreciation?
A) Strong US dollar
B) Foreign capital inflows
C) Rising crude oil prices
D) Inflation
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is a potential risk of the rupee's internationalization?
A) Increased stability
B) Lower interest rates
C) Higher volatility
D) Enhanced trade relations
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: How does the interest rate differential affect the rupee?
A) It does not affect the rupee
B) It makes the rupee stronger
C) It increases demand for dollars
D) It stabilizes the rupee
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What can be a consequence of a weaker rupee for domestic companies?
A) Decreased production costs
B) Increased raw material costs
C) Higher export profits
D) Enhanced competitiveness
Correct Answer: B
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