Educational purposes only. This content does not constitute investment advice. Read our disclaimer
StockCram is not a broker-dealer, investment adviser, or financial institution. All content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Consult a qualified financial professional before making investment decisions. Past performance does not guarantee future results.Simple Definition
When the stock market is open: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Eastern, Monday-Friday.
Why It Matters
Regular market hours are when most trading happens and prices are most accurate. The first and last 30 minutes tend to be the most volatile. If you're a long-term investor, the exact timing doesn't matter much. But if you're actively trading, know that pre-market (4-9:30 AM) and after-hours (4-8 PM) have wider spreads and less liquidity.
Key Points
- Market is closed on weekends and 9 holidays: New Year's, MLK Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
- Earnings reports often come out before open or after close - causing big moves in after-hours trading
- Global markets operate in different time zones - you can trade international ETFs during US hours
Related Terms
Common Questions
When the stock market is open: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Eastern, Monday-Friday. Regular market hours are when most trading happens and prices are most accurate. The first and last 30 minutes tend to be the most volatile.
Regular market hours are when most trading happens and prices are most accurate. The first and last 30 minutes tend to be the most volatile. If you're a long-term investor, the exact timing doesn't matter much. But if you're actively trading, know that pre-market (4-9:30 AM) and after-hours (4-8 PM) have wider spreads and less liquidity.
Market is closed on weekends and 9 holidays: New Year's, MLK Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
Earnings reports often come out before open or after close - causing big moves in after-hours trading
Global markets operate in different time zones - you can trade international ETFs during US hours