Rupee down 15 paise against dollar in early trade

The rupee fell by 15 paise to 61.20 against the dollar in early trade on Friday due to fresh demand for the US currency from banks and importers amid a weak opening in local equities.

Dealers said besides increased demand for the American currency from importers, the dollar's strength against other Asian currencies overseas, put pressure on the local unit.

The rupee had gained 35 paise to close at over one-week high of 61.05 against the dollar yesterday on persistent selling of the US currency by exporters and some banks amid a surge in local equities.