The rupee today appreciated by 13 paise to 45.10 a dollar in early trade in line with other firming currencies amid increased capital inflows by foreign funds into the stock markets.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market, the rupee strengthened by 13 paise to 45.10 a dollar.

The domestic currency had gained 26 paise to close at over 18-month high of 45.23/24 in the previous session.

Dealers said the rupee strengthened against the US currency largely in line with other firming Asian currencies and dollar selling by banks and exporters.

Besides, more capital inflows by foreign funds into the equity markets also supported the rupee, they added.

The Bombay Stock Exchange benchmark Sensex rose by 80.38 points, or 0.46 per cent, to 17,725.14 in the opening trade.