The Indian rupee gained 19 paise to Rs 45.56 against the US dollar in early trade at the Interbank Foreign Exchange Wednesday, supported by a higher opening in the stock market and weakness of the American currency against the euro.

The rupee had appreciated by 15 paise to close at Rs 45.75/76 against the US currency tuesday on the back of fresh dollar-selling by exporters, even as the equity market experienced sharp losses.

Dealers said that in addition to dollar weakness against other currency rivals overseas, a higher opening in the stock market Wednesday boosted the rupee sentiment.