The Indian rupee advanced by 18 paise to 73.60 against the US dollar in opening trade on Friday supported by positive domestic equities and weak American currency.

At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened at 73.62 against the US dollar, then inched higher to 73.60, reflecting a rise of 18 paise over its last close. The local unit also touched a low of 73.68 in initial deals. On Thursday, the rupee had settled at 73.78 against the American currency.