The Indian rupee gained 3 paise to Rs 44.94 per $ at the Interbank Foreign Exchange today, extending its rising streak for the third straight day on the back of a higher opening in the stock market and dollar weakness against other Asian currencies.
The rupee had appreciated by 8 paise to close at Rs 44.97/98 against the $ in yesterday's trade on persistent selling of dollars by banks and exporters.
Forex dealers said dollar weakness against other Asian currencies overseas and a higher opening in the stock market kept rupee sentiment firm against the American dollar.
Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex was up by 77.10 points to 18,218.50 in opening trade today.