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ISLAMABAD

The US dollar slightly improved against the rupee in the money markets of Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Thursday.

The markets of the twin cities started the day with a comparatively better greenback at Rs 54.22 as compared to overnight value of Rs 54.20. The dollar was sold at Rs 54.28 as compared to Wednesday's rate of Rs 54.25.

Money changers were of the view that kerb markets of Islamabad and Rawalpindi started the day on a healthy note following active buying and selling in the dollar and other currencies. Trade volume further expanded in the evening session and the market finally closed on an extraordinary healthy note.

They said that participation of manipulators and margin hunters helped the dollar to gain strength in the kerb. However, a large number of genuine buyers and sellers also visited the market throughout the day.

Pound sterling resumed trading at Rs 86.25 as compared to same last rate. British currency moved between Rs 86.25 and Rs 86.35 and was finally sold at Rs 86.50.

UAE dirham opened at Rs 14.82 as compared to last rate of Rs 14.80. Dirham remained active throughout the day and was sold at Rs 14.84.

Saudi riyal was bought at Rs 14.46 and sellers offered 2 paisa more at Rs 14.48.

Japanese yen was bought and sold at Re 0.502 and Rs 0.505 respectively.

German mark was plus by quarter of a rupee as it opened at Rs 27.15 as compared to previous rate of Rs 26.90. Mark remained active in both morning-evening sessions and was sold at Rs 27.50.