Understanding the stock market hours is crucial for investors to strategically plan their trades and stay informed. The standard trading sessions for major exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq are consistent, but it’s equally important to be aware of market holidays and early closures. Knowing when the market is open and closed helps in making timely decisions and avoiding missed opportunities or unexpected trading halts.
Regular Stock Market Trading Hours
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq operate on a regular weekday schedule, from Monday through Friday. The standard stock market opening time is 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time, and it closes at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. This consistent schedule allows for a full six and a half hours of trading each weekday, providing ample time for investors to engage with the market. Weekends are standard days off for the stock market, allowing for a break before the next trading week begins.
Stock Market Holidays in 2025
Just like other institutions, the stock market observes specific holidays throughout the year, resulting in market closures. For the year 2025, the NYSE and Nasdaq will be closed on the following holidays:
| Holiday | Date |
|---|---|
| Washington’s Birthday/Presidents Day | Monday, February 17 |
| Good Friday | Friday, April 18 |
| Memorial Day | Monday, May 26 |
| Juneteenth National Independence Day | Thursday, June 19 |
| Independence Day | Friday, July 4 |
| Labor Day | Monday, September 1 |
| Thanksgiving Day | Thursday, November 27 |
| Christmas Day | Thursday, December 25 |
It’s important to note that if a holiday falls on a Sunday, the stock market will typically observe the closure on the following Monday. Staying aware of these stock market holidays is essential for effective investment planning.
Early Stock Market Closures
In addition to full-day holidays, the stock market also has a few days with early closures. On these days, the stock market closing time is 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. In 2025, the stock market will close early on:
- Thursday, July 3, 2025
- Friday, November 28, 2025 (Day after Thanksgiving)
- Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Note: Bond markets close even earlier at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on early closure days.
Holidays with Regular Stock Market Hours but Bond Market Closures
Interestingly, there are certain holidays where the stock market remains open for regular trading hours, but the bond markets close early or are fully closed. In 2025:
Bond markets close early (at 2 p.m. ET) on:
- Maundy Thursday (Thursday before Good Friday)
- The Friday before Memorial Day
- New Year’s Eve
Bond markets are closed while stock markets are open on:
- Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day
- Veterans Day
Keeping these nuances in mind, especially for those involved in both stock and bond trading, is vital for managing investment activities effectively throughout the year. Always refer to official exchange calendars for the most up-to-date information.
