At What Time Does the Stock Market Open?

The stock market operates on a schedule, with specific opening and closing times depending on the exchange and country. Understanding these market hours is crucial for traders and investors.

Stock Market Opening Hours by Region

United States

The two major stock exchanges in the U.S. are:

• New York Stock Exchange (NYSE): Opens at 9:30 AM Eastern Time (ET) and closes at 4:00 PM ET.
• Nasdaq: Also operates from 9:30 AM ET to 4:00 PM ET.

Pre-market trading starts as early as 4:00 AM ET, while after-hours trading extends until 8:00 PM ET.

Europe

• London Stock Exchange (LSE): Opens at 8:00 AM GMT, closes at 4:30 PM GMT.
• Euronext (Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels): Opens at 9:00 AM CET, closes at 5:30 PM CET.
• Frankfurt Stock Exchange (Xetra): Opens at 9:00 AM CET, closes at 5:30 PM CET.

Asia

• Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE): Opens at 9:00 AM JST, closes at 3:00 PM JST (with a lunch break from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM).
• Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE): Opens at 9:30 AM CST, closes at 3:00 PM CST (lunch break from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM).
• Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX): Opens at 9:30 AM HKT, closes at 4:00 PM HKT (lunch break from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM).

Australia

• Australian Securities Exchange (ASX): Opens at 10:00 AM AEST, closes at 4:00 PM AEST.

Why Stock Market Hours Matter

Stock market opening hours affect trading volume, volatility, and liquidity. Many traders aim to trade at the opening bell due to price movements and high activity levels.

Final Thoughts

Understanding stock market hours helps investors plan trades efficiently. While regular trading hours apply, pre-market and after-hours trading allow extended opportunities for those looking to react to market news.