Are you new to the world of stock trading and looking to understand the US stock exchange schedule? You've come to the right place. Trading on the US stock exchanges can be both exciting and challenging, and having a clear understanding of the schedule is crucial for making informed decisions. In this article, we'll delve into the key aspects of the US stock exchange schedule, including trading hours, holidays, and other important details.
Trading Hours
The primary stock exchanges in the United States are the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the NASDAQ. Both exchanges operate under the following trading hours:
- Market Open: 9:30 AM Eastern Time (ET)
- Market Close: 4:00 PM ET
During this time, investors can buy and sell stocks, and the prices of stocks are determined through a continuous auction process. It's important to note that trading hours may vary slightly for some exchanges, such as the American Stock Exchange (AMEX), which operates from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM ET as well.
Pre-Market and After-Hours Trading
In addition to regular trading hours, investors can also participate in pre-market and after-hours trading sessions. These sessions allow for trading before the market opens and after the market closes, respectively.
- Pre-Market Trading: Typically, pre-market trading begins at 4:00 AM ET and ends at 9:30 AM ET.
- After-Hours Trading: After-hours trading typically starts at 4:00 PM ET and ends at 8:00 PM ET.

These sessions can be particularly useful for investors who want to trade outside of regular trading hours or who may be unable to monitor the market during trading hours.
Stock Exchange Holidays
It's important to be aware of stock exchange holidays, as these are days when the markets are closed and trading does not occur. The following are some of the major holidays observed by the US stock exchanges:
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- President's Day
- Good Friday
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
It's crucial to plan your trading activities accordingly, as the markets will be closed on these days.
Other Important Considerations
In addition to trading hours and holidays, there are a few other important considerations to keep in mind when trading on the US stock exchanges:
- Trading Cycles: The stock market operates on a five-day trading cycle, with the first trading day of the month being referred to as "Option Expiration Friday."
- Market Closes: The market typically closes for a few minutes at 11:30 AM ET on the third Friday of each month for the options expiration process.
- Trading Fees: Be aware of the trading fees associated with your brokerage account, as these can vary depending on the platform and the type of trade.
Conclusion
Understanding the US stock exchange schedule is essential for anyone looking to trade stocks. By familiarizing yourself with trading hours, holidays, and other important details, you can make informed decisions and increase your chances of success in the stock market. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced investor, take the time to learn about the US stock exchange schedule and the factors that influence it.
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