In a noteworthy development during the end of the election week, the Pakistani Rupee experienced a marginal increase in its value against the US Dollar, initiating trade at an impressive 280 in the interbank market.
The local currency showcased stability against the US dollar, reaching an intraday high of 279. This movement comes amidst a backdrop of significant downturns in other financial indicators such as the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), dollar-denominated bonds, and the overall public mood.
Throughout the day, the interbank rate fluctuated slightly between 279 and 280, eventually settling at the same level by the day’s end. Similarly, in the open market, the Rupee oscillated within the 279 to 281 bracket.
By the close of the market, the Rupee had edged up by 0.02 percent, finalizing at 279.28, marking a six paisa appreciation against the dollar.
Reflecting on the fiscal year-to-date, the Rupee has appreciated by 2.38 percent. Despite this recent uplift, it’s important to note the currency’s depreciation of nearly Rs. 60 since January 2023 and over Rs. 107 since April 2022 against the dollar.
Moody’s Investors Service has highlighted that the prompt disclosure of election results and the seamless establishment of a new government could mitigate policy and political uncertainties. This is vital for Pakistan as it navigates through challenging macroeconomic terrains characterized by a delicate balance of payments, sluggish growth, and escalating inflation rates.
Market sentiment has been negatively impacted by allegations of electoral misconduct, casting shadows of uncertainty over the Rupee’s future trajectory. A market analyst anticipates potential depreciations in the Rupee’s value in the upcoming days, attributing this to the tumultuous aftermath of the February 8 General Elections.
In today’s interbank market, the Rupee fared differently against various major currencies. It saw a decline of 26 paisas against the Euro (EUR) and 37 paisas against the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Conversely, it improved marginally against the Saudi Riyal (SAR) and the UAE Dirham (AED) by one paisa each, gained 20 paisas against the British Pound (GBP), and surged by 46 paisas against the Australian Dollar (AUD).
The slight appreciation of the Pakistani Rupee against the US Dollar at the week’s close provides a glimmer of optimism in an otherwise tense economic environment. As Pakistan stands at a crossroads post-election, the financial markets and the Rupee’s trajectory hang in balance, awaiting the impacts of political developments and economic policies.