The recent forecasts for the USD to INR exchange rate indicate a complex interplay of factors affecting both currencies. Analysts have noted that the US dollar (USD) has come under pressure due to dovish sentiment surrounding the Federal Reserve's anticipated interest rate cuts. Current expectations suggest a potential 25-basis-point reduction, with some investors speculating on the possibility of a more significant 50-bps cut following weak retail sales data. This dovish outlook has contributed to the dollar's decline.
Conversely, the Indian Rupee (INR) has faced considerable headwinds, recently hitting record lows against the USD, reaching 88.36 on September 5, 2025. This decline has been influenced by new tariffs imposed by the U.S. on key Indian exports and sustained outflows of foreign portfolio investments, which have exacerbated the rupee's depreciation. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has intervened to stabilize the INR, actively selling US dollars to prevent further losses.
Despite the current pressures on the INR, a Reuters poll suggests that analysts do not foresee further significant declines in the near term, projecting a rate of 88.04 by the end of September and approximately 88.00 within a year. The USD to INR rate at 88.12 is currently 1.3% above its three-month average of 86.96, reflecting a relatively stable trading range over the past few months.
The evolving economic landscape, including the potential impacts of central bank actions and geopolitical tensions, will continue to influence USD and INR movements. Therefore, individuals and businesses engaged in international transactions should remain vigilant and consider these forecasts while planning their currency exchanges.