<h1>Rupee strengthens 40 paise to 86.99 as GST restructure optimism and eased tariff fears boost market sentiment</h1> The rupee strengthened 40 paise to close at 86.99 against the US dollar, driven by market optimism over proposed Goods and Services Tax (GST) restructuring and easing concerns about additional US tariffs following a meeting between the US and Russian heads of state. The government-proposed GST would replace current multiple slabs with two primary rates (5% and 18%) plus a 40% top bracket for certain demerit goods, subject to GST Council approval. Analysts expect a positive trading bias but note importer dollar demand, US economic releases, and crude price movements could limit gains; a spot range of 86.70-87.40 was cited.