Rupee rises 30 paise, gains past 70 level for first time since January 8

The rupee appreciated by 30 paise to 69.98 against the US dollar on Thursday amid fall in crude oil prices and weak Asian equities. It was the first time since January 8 that the currency breached 70 levels. 

Earlier, the domestic unit opened 20 paise higher at 70.08.  

The domestic unit rallied 21 paise to close at 70.28 on Wednesday on easing crude oil prices even as the greenback strengthened vis-a-vis other major currencies.

Appreciation in the rupee has been driven primarily by FII inflows that have led the rally for rupee. In the next couple of sessions volatility for