A Must-Read for Taiwanese Investors | Complete Guide to US Stock Trading Hours and Market Holidays in 2026

Stay Informed Now: U.S. Stock Market Closure and Trading Hours in 2026

The U.S. stock market enters winter time starting November 2, 2025, with regular trading hours adjusted to 22:30 to 05:00 Taiwan time. For Taiwanese investors, understanding when the U.S. stock market closes and reopens is key to avoiding missed investment opportunities.

Overview of U.S. Stock Trading Hours: Three Trading Sessions You Need to Know

The U.S. stock market is not operated by a single exchange; the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and American Stock Exchange operate independently. Although each exchange has slightly different rules, opening and closing times are generally synchronized.

The U.S. stock market offers three trading sessions:

Pre-market trading: 4:00-9:30 AM Eastern Time (17:00-22:30 Taiwan time during winter)

Regular trading: 9:30 AM-4:00 PM Eastern Time (22:30-5:00 Taiwan time during winter; 21:30-4:00 during summer)

After-hours trading: 4:00-8:00 PM Eastern Time (Next day 5:00-9:00 during winter; 4:00-8:00 during summer)

Most Taiwanese traders are active during the regular trading hours, when liquidity is highest and price discovery is most efficient.

Winter and Summer Time Changes: Why Taiwanese Investors Often Get Confused About the Time

Market closing times are not fixed; the key is the switch between winter and summer time. The U.S. begins daylight saving time on the second Sunday in March at 2:00 AM, and reverts to standard time on the first Sunday in November at 2:00 AM.

During the transition periods, opening times are adjusted accordingly:

• Winter Time (November-March): Opens at 22:30 Taiwan time
• Summer Time (March-November): Opens at 21:30 Taiwan time

Since Asia does not observe daylight saving time, the time difference shifts by one hour. Many Taiwanese investors may mistakenly trade at incorrect times during these transitions. It is recommended to double-check opening hours before each time change.

2026 U.S. Stock Market Holiday Calendar: Days When Trading Is Not Allowed

In addition to regular trading hours, the U.S. stock market closes on certain public holidays. In 2026, the following dates will be market holidays, and no trading can occur:

Trading Tip: Market volatility often occurs around holiday closings. Plan your positions in advance to manage risks.

Breakdown of the Three Major U.S. Stock Exchanges: Features and Characteristics

New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)

As the world’s largest stock exchange, NYSE lists over 3,500 stocks with a market cap leading globally. Trading is now electronic, but floor trading remains for large institutional transactions and price setting. Blue-chip stocks are primarily listed here.

NASDAQ

The world’s first all-electronic stock exchange, home to many tech giants—Microsoft, Apple, etc. Investors trade directly via phone or internet, with fast execution and high liquidity.

American Stock Exchange (AMEX / NYSE American)

The third-largest U.S. exchange, specializing in small- and mid-cap stocks. It is the only exchange offering stocks, futures, and derivatives trading. Acquired by NYSE in 2008, it was renamed NYSE American.

Global Stock Market Comparison: Trading Hours for Multiple Markets for Taiwanese Investors

If you plan to explore multiple overseas markets, here are the opening and closing times of major exchanges for reference:

U.S. trading rules differ significantly from Taiwan’s—Taiwan’s stock market operates on a single exchange, while U.S. markets span three major exchanges. Investors should pay attention to each exchange’s market closure schedule to ensure uninterrupted trading plans. It is recommended to mark the 2026 U.S. stock market holiday dates on your calendar and adjust your strategies accordingly.