On Friday, the Indian rupee fell to a historic low of 96.14 against the US dollar, a decline of 50 paise from the previous close of 95.64. This drop is attributed to multiple factors, including a significant rise in crude oil prices, which have surged to over $107 per barrel due to concerns about supply disruptions from West Asia. Given that India imports more than 85% of its crude oil, the weaker rupee exacerbates import costs, leading to inflationary pressures on essential goods. Additionally, the strengthening US dollar, bolstered by strong retail sales data and stable labor market figures, has heightened demand for the dollar as a safe haven during periods of global uncertainty. The dollar index rose by 0.24% to 99.05, further impacting the rupee. In response to the rising energy costs, the Indian government has increased petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per litre. Analysts indicate that the rupee's trajectory will depend on future crude oil prices, geopolitical developments, and the Reserve Bank of India's interventions to stabilize the currency.