Dollar Surge Against Rupee in Pakistan February 2026 Why Is Dollar Strengthening? Full Latest News & Trend Analysis
In Pakistan, the US Dollar (USD) has seen a slight increase against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in the open market during early February 2026, while the interbank rate remains largely stable. As of February 8-9, 2026 (latest available data), the open market buying rate is around Rs 280.60 and selling up to Rs 282.30 in cities like Karachi. The interbank/mid-market rate (State Bank of Pakistan and Wise) is holding steady at approximately Rs 279.7-279.9 per USD, with minimal daily changes.
This minor izafa (increase) in open market rates follows an early February peak of around Rs 282 on February 1, followed by a small dip and stabilization. The rupee has shown resilience overall in 2026 so far, but open market premiums (dealers’ margins) are pushing selling rates higher.
Today’s USD to PKR Rates (February 8-9, 2026 – Approximate Live):
- Interbank / SBP Mid-Market Rate:Rs 279.7 – 279.9 per USD (Wise: 279.7 on Feb 8; SBP revaluation around 279.71-279.88 recently).
- Open Market Rate (Karachi & Major Cities):
- Buying: Rs 280.60
- Selling: Rs 282.30 (as reported in open market updates from Daily Pakistan and forex dealers).
- Recent Trend:
- Early February (Feb 1): High ~Rs 282 (peak).
- Feb 3-6: Dropped to lows around Rs 279.5-279.7.
- Feb 7-9: Slight upward pressure in open market (selling up to 282.3), interbank flat with very minor fluctuations (0.00% to -0.04% daily changes).
Rates fluctuate hourly based on market sentiment, remittances inflow, fuel imports, and global USD strength.
Why Is the Dollar Increasing Against the Rupee? Simple Reasons
- Global USD Strength: The US dollar remains strong worldwide due to economic factors like interest rates and safe-haven demand.
- Local Demand Pressure: Higher imports (oil, machinery) increase dollar demand in the open market.
- Open Market Premiums: Dealers add margins for profit/risk, making selling rates higher than interbank (difference of Rs 2-3).
- Recent Stability: The rupee has actually strengthened slightly overall in early 2026 (from January highs near 282 to current ~279.7), but open market sees temporary izafa due to weekend/liquidity factors.
Experts note no major crisis – reserves are stable, and if remittances stay strong, rupee could hold or improve.
Quick Comparison Table (February 2026 Recent Days):
| Date/Period | Interbank Rate (Approx) | Open Market Buying/Selling | Change Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 1 | ~282 | High ~282 | Early month peak |
| Feb 3-4 | 279.5-280 | 280-282 | Slight drop |
| Feb 5-6 | 279.7-280 | ~280 | Stable/low |
| Feb 7-8 | 279.7-279.9 | 280.6 / 282.3 | Minor izafa in open market |
| Feb 9 (Latest) | ~279.7-280 | 280.6 / 282.3 | Slight upward pressure |
Tips for You (Especially in Karachi):
- For buying dollars (travel/remittances): Use banks/interbank rates (cheaper than open market).
- For selling or urgent needs: Open market selling rate is higher – compare dealers.
- Track live: Check SBP website, Wise, Hamariweb, or apps like XE for real-time.
- Outlook: Analysts expect 276-284 range in February – potential stability if no shocks.
Conclusion Dollar ki qeemat mein slight izafa against rupee ho raha hai open market mein (up to Rs 282.30 selling), lekin interbank rate stable hai around Rs 279.7-280. Yeh temporary pressure hai, aur rupee overall mazboot dikha raha hai 2026 mein. Economy ke positive indicators (reserves, remittances) se behtar ho sakta hai. Har roz official sources se check karen! 💵🇵🇰
