<h1>Rupee rises 20 paise to 87.39 as equities, GST draft with two slabs plus top bracket boost market optimism</h1> The rupee appreciated 20 paise to close at 87.39 per US dollar, aided by strong domestic equities and market optimism after the central government circulated a draft of next-generation GST reforms proposing two main tax slabs (5% and 18%) plus a special top bracket for certain demerit goods, replacing existing four slabs. Traders noted continued caution due to bilateral tariff uncertainties and expected volatility around forthcoming central bank commentary. Reserve intervention reportedly contributed to support after a fall in forex reserves of about USD 10 billion. Brent crude and the dollar index moved modestly; domestic benchmarks rallied and foreign institutional inflows were reported.