<h1>Rupee Gains 17 Paise to 87.05/USD on Strong Economy, Lower Crude Prices, Despite Equity Losses and Outflows</h1> The rupee appreciated by 17 paise to close at 87.05 against the US dollar, driven by strong macroeconomic indicators and declining crude oil prices. The weakening US dollar index further supported the rupee, although domestic equity losses and foreign capital outflows limited gains. The rupee fluctuated between 86.94 and 87.15 during the session. Analysts noted that upbeat economic data and expectations of a rate cut due to lower inflation bolstered the rupee. Meanwhile, global trade tensions rose as the US increased tariffs on steel and aluminum, prompting retaliatory measures from Canada and the EU.