Rupiah Holds Above Rp 17,100, Edges Up Slightly Amid Global Tensions

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The rupiah exchange rate in the spot market remains above Rp 17,100 per US dollar. Bloomberg data shows the rupiah closed with a slight strengthening of 0.03 per cent at Rp 17,138 on Thursday (16/4/2026). This position is up 4 points from Wednesday’s close at Rp 17,143 per US dollar. The rupiah’s strengthening is driven by the easing of tensions between the United States and Iran. Currency and Commodities Analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi assesses that positive sentiment has emerged following statements from the White House opening the possibility of an agreement. “The White House expressed optimism on Wednesday about reaching an agreement to end the war with Iran, while also warning of increased economic pressure on Tehran if it continues to resist,” Ibrahim told reporters on Thursday afternoon. Tehran is said to be considering opening shipping lanes on the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz if an agreement is reached. The Strait of Hormuz plays a crucial role in global energy distribution. Around 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas pass through this route. Conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran previously disrupted global energy supplies. Disruptions occurred due to logistical barriers in the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic efforts are still ongoing. Officials from both countries are considering continuing talks in Pakistan. Pakistan’s military chief has also arrived in Tehran to push for mediation and prevent escalation. On the other hand, the United States continues to impose a blockade on shipments from Iranian ports. This policy halts the country’s maritime trade activities. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasised that exceptions for purchasing Iranian and Russian oil will not be extended without sanctions. From the domestic side, Ibrahim highlighted the rise in Indonesia’s foreign debt. On an annual basis, foreign debt grew by 2.5 per cent. This rate is higher than January’s growth of 1.7 per cent. The increase mainly comes from the public sector, particularly the central bank. Foreign capital inflows into Bank Indonesia’s Rupiah Securities (SRBI) also contributed to the rise.