The Indian rupee strengthened by 9 paise to Rs 45.06 against the US dollar in early trade. The rupee had depreciated by 29 paise to close at a nearly two-month low of Rs 45.16 against the US dollar in the previous session. Oil price higher in Asian trade today Oil price was higher in Asian trade today. New York's main contract, light sweet crude for June delivery advanced 80 cents to 97.71 USD a barrel and Brent North Sea crude for July delivery gained 57 cents to 110.56 USD.