<h1>Rupee slips seven paise to 88.27 on broad dollar strength, weak equities, tariff concerns and jobless data boost</h1> The domestic currency weakened 7 paise to 88.27 against the US dollar in early trade, driven by broad dollar strength, weaker domestic equities and investor concern over US tariffs on Indian goods; the rupee had opened at 88.22 and touched 88.27. Market commentary flagged key technical support near 87.70 and resistance around 88.40. US weekly jobless claims unexpectedly fell, lifting the dollar index toward 97 (reported at 97.34). Major equity indices opened lower and foreign institutional investors recorded net purchases of Rs 366.69 crore. Bilateral trade talks between the two governments were described as progressing.