Rupee marginally up in early trade

The rupee had gained 11 paise to close at an over two-and-a-half-month high of 44.85/86 against the US currency in yesterday`s trade, largely driven by a smart rally in local equities amid expectations of increased capital inflows.

Forex dealers said a higher opening in the stock market and dollar weakness against other currencies helped the rupee strengthen.

Meanwhile, the Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex was up by 119.32 points, or 0.65 per cent, at 18,325.48 in opening trade today.