Nasdaq Plans 24-Hour Trading by 2026

Nasdaq is preparing to introduce 24-hour trading on its platform by the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approval.

The initiative aims to provide investors with more flexibility, align with global markets, and enhance access to capital. Nasdaq president Tal Cohen emphasized that the exchange is ensuring the necessary infrastructure and regulatory frameworks are established before moving forward.

This change would position Nasdaq as the first major U.S. stock exchange to operate continuously, deviating from the traditional trading hours of 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Cohen stated, “We are excited to share that Nasdaq has begun engaging with regulators, market participants, and other key stakeholders, with a view of enabling 24-hour trading five days a week on the Nasdaq Stock Market.” However, markets will remain closed on weekends.

Currently, limited extended trading is available through pre-market and after-hours sessions. The proposed 24-hour model could significantly enhance market liquidity, allowing investors to respond in real-time to global events.

Maintaining liquidity and preventing excessive volatility during non-traditional trading hours will require collaboration among exchanges, market makers, and regulators. Nasdaq plans to partner closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and other industry stakeholders to address these challenges.

Implications for Crypto and Bitcoin ETFs

The 24-hour trading model aligns more closely with the crypto market, where assets like Bitcoin (BTC) trade continuously without centralized oversight. The upcoming introduction of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in early 2024 has already bridged the gap between traditional finance and digital assets. Nasdaq’s shift could further integrate crypto-related products into mainstream markets.

With spot Bitcoin ETFs like BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust gaining popularity, the ability to trade these instruments at all hours could improve liquidity and price discovery, highlighting increasing institutional interest in Bitcoin ETF options trading.