The Indian rupee appreciated by 15 paise to Rs 46.62 a dollar in early trade on the Interbank Foreign Exchange on Friday, supported by fresh capital inflows by foreign funds and stronger Asian currencies against the dollar.

 The Rupee fell 7 paise at nearly 3-week low of Rs 46.77/78 against the US currency in Thursday’s trading session due to a firm dollar overseas amid weak equities.  

Forex dealers said besides firming Asian currencies against the dollar, increased capital inflow into equities by foreign funds also provided support to the rupee.

 Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange index, Sensex rose by 79.23 points or 0.43 per cent, to 18,153.13 points in the opening trade on Friday.