The rupee depreciated by 12 paise to Rs 44.60 against the US dollar in the early trade at the Interbank Foreign Exchange market today, largely in line with weakness in other Asian currencies overseas amid a lower opening in the stock market.

The domestic unit fell by 12 paise to close at Rs 44.48/49 against the dollar on Monday following fresh demand for the American currency from importers and some weakness in equities.

Forex dealers said besides weakness in major currencies against the dollar overseas, lower opening in the stock market has also put pressure on the rupee sentiment.

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