The question of whether the stock market is open or closed today is one that many investors, traders, and financial enthusiasts find themselves asking. Understanding the stock market's operating hours and holiday schedules is crucial for anyone involved in buying, selling, or simply monitoring stocks. In this article, we'll break down the regular trading hours of major stock exchanges in the United States, as well as the key holidays when the market takes a break.
Regular Trading Hours
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the NASDAQ, two of the most prominent stock exchanges globally, follow a consistent schedule during normal business weeks. They are open from Monday through Friday. The trading day commences at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time and concludes at 4 p.m. Eastern Time. This six-and-a-half-hour trading window provides investors with the opportunity to execute trades, react to market news, and manage their portfolios. Weekends, however, are a different story. Both the NYSE and NASDAQ are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. This gives the market participants, including brokers, traders, and exchange staff, a much-needed break and also allows for the processing and settlement of trades from the previous week.
Stock Market Holidays
In addition to the weekend closures, the stock market observes several holidays throughout the year. These holidays are determined in advance, and their observance may vary slightly depending on the year and how the holiday falls on the calendar.
Washington's Birthday/Presidents Day
This holiday is celebrated on the third Monday of February. In 2025, it will be on Monday, February 17. On this day, both the NYSE and NASDAQ are closed. The holiday honors the birthdays of George Washington and other U.S. presidents.
Good Friday
Good Friday, which falls on Friday, April 18 in 2025, is another day when the stock market comes to a halt. It is a significant religious holiday in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The closure on Good Friday is consistent across the NYSE and NASDAQ.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. In 2025, it will be on Monday, May 26. This holiday is dedicated to honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. The stock market, as a sign of respect and in observance of the national holiday, is closed on Memorial Day.
Juneteenth National Independence Day
Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, is now a federal holiday. In 2025, it will be celebrated on Thursday, June 19. On this day, the NYSE, NASDAQ, and bond markets will be closed.
Independence Day
Independence Day, which celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, is a major U.S. holiday. In 2025, it falls on Friday, July 4. The stock market is closed to mark this important day in American history.
Labor Day
Labor Day, observed on the first Monday of September, honors the American labor movement and the contributions of workers. In 2025, it will be on Monday, September 1. The stock market takes a break on this day, giving workers and market participants alike a day off.
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. In 2025, it will be on Thursday, November 27. The stock market is closed, allowing people to spend time with their families and give thanks.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, is a widely celebrated holiday. In 2025, it falls on Thursday, December 25. The stock market is closed on this day, as it is a time for celebration and family gatherings.
Early Closures
There are also certain days when the stock market closes early. On Thursday, July 3, 2025 (the day before Independence Day), the stock market will close at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. The bond markets, however, will close at 2 p.m. Eastern Time. Similarly, on Friday, November 28, 2025 (the day after Thanksgiving), the stock market will close at 1 p.m. Eastern Time, with the bond markets closing at 2 p.m. Eastern Time. Another early closure occurs on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 (Christmas Eve), with the stock market closing at 1 p.m. Eastern Time and the bond markets at 2 p.m. Eastern Time.
Holidays with Partial Closures or Different Schedules
There are some holidays where the stock market and bond markets have different schedules. For example, on Maundy Thursday (the Thursday before Good Friday), although the stock market holds regular hours, the bond markets will close early at 2 p.m. Eastern Time. The same is true for the Friday before Memorial Day and New Year's Eve. Additionally, on Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day and Veterans Day, the bond markets are closed while the stock markets are still open.
How to Stay Informed
To always know whether the stock market is open or closed, it's advisable to use reliable financial calendars. Many financial news websites, brokerage platforms, and financial institutions provide up-to-date calendars that clearly mark stock market holidays and early closures. Additionally, the official websites of the NYSE and NASDAQ also have detailed information about their operating schedules, including any changes due to holidays or special events. By staying informed about the stock market's schedule, investors can better plan their trading activities, avoid missing out on important opportunities, and ensure that they are always in tune with the market's rhythm. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a beginner investor, being aware of when the market is open or closed is an essential part of navigating the world of stocks.