The rupee strengthened by 6 paise to 85.44 against the US dollar in early Monday trade, aided by a weaker greenback and softer crude oil prices amid improved investor risk appetite.
According to forex dealers, the US dollar index slipped to the 97 mark in overseas markets, while Brent crude dropped to USD 67 per barrel on expectations of increased OPEC+ supply in August and easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Additionally, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel helped calm global oil markets, pushing crude prices lower and dampening demand for the safe-haven dollar.