The Indian rupee strengthened by 12 paise to Rs49.02 per dollar in early trade on the Interbank Foreign Exchange on Friday , supported by a higher opening in the equity market and steady euro against the American currency.
Forex dealers said a strong opening in the domestic stock market and steady euro overseas against the US dollar gave a boost to the rupee sentiment.
The rupee had gained 4 paise to close at Rs49.14/15 against the dollar on Thursday following late dollar-selling by exporters and a recovery in stocks.
Meanwhile, the 30-share BSE Sensex rose by 220.33 points, or 1.26 per cent, to 17,702.26 in opening trade today.