20000325ISLAMABAD

The US dollar showed an improvement of 5 paisa against the rupee in the currency exchange establishments of Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Friday.

The market started the day at Rs 54.15 as compared to last rate of Rs 54.10. Dollar was sold at Rs 54.20 as compared to Wednesday's rate of Rs 54.15.

Money changers said that markets of twin cities resumed trading on a better note following participation of genuine buyers and sellers in the morning session. The markets remained in plus territory throughout the day and finally closed on a healthy note.

Margin hunters took new positions in dollar and other star performer currencies to book profit. The trade volume of currencies like pound, dirham and riyal expanded in the second session.

They said that local buyers dominated the changing hand activity throughout the day and temporary pause in the supply of greenback changed the demand and supply factor.

Pound sterling was surged by 95 paisa in its value as it opened at Rs 86.15 as compared to previous rate of Rs 85.20. British currency moved between Rs 86.15 and Rs 86.20 and was sold at Rs 87.50. The change in the value of pound was due to its fluctuation in the international market.

Yen was bought and sold at Re 0.509 and Re 0. 451. Yen moved in a tight band with thin turnover.

UAE dirham opened at Rs 14.79 (buying) and sellers offered 3 paisa more at Rs 14.82. Saudi currency was bought and sold at Rs 14.45 and Rs 14.48 respectively.

German mark showed an improvement of 5 paisa as it opened at Rs 27 as compared to Wednesday's rate of Rs 26.95. Mark remained active in both morning-evening sessions and was sold at Rs 27.20.