The rupee declined for fourth day in a row by losing 16 paise to Rs. 52.88 per dollar in early trade on Wednesday, weighed down by dollar's gains overseas.

Forex dealers said weakness in Asian currencies against the US dollar and demand for the greenback from importers put pressure on the rupee.

Meanwhile, the BSE benchmark Sensex fell by 127.22 points, or 0.68%, to 18,666.14.

The domestic unit had ended down by 8 paise at Rs. 52.72 per dollar in the previous session on heavy dollar demand from importers.