2025 US Stock Market Holiday Schedule and Trading Hours Complete Guide: Real-time Strategies for New York, NASDAQ, and AMEX (Korean Time Comparison)

Overview

To invest in the U.S. stock market, you must accurately understand trading hours and holidays. Due to daylight saving time and the time difference with Korea, your trading plans may be affected. This article summarizes the opening and closing times of major U.S. exchanges, holiday schedule for 2025, and regulations for futures and spot trading, allowing for a quick comparison.

Understanding the Features of the Three Major U.S. Stock Exchanges

The U.S. stock market consists of three major exchanges, each with unique characteristics.

New York Stock Exchange(NYSE): The Stage for Traditional Giants

Founded in 1792, it is the world’s leading stock exchange, listing about 2,400 companies with a total market capitalization of approximately $23 trillion. Well-established large-cap stocks like Berkshire Hathaway, Johnson & Johnson, Visa, and Walmart are mainly traded.

NASDAQ(NASDAQ): The Tech Hub

Established in 1971, it has grown into the second-largest exchange in the world. It is the main stage for technology companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia, attracting tech stock investors.

American Stock Exchange(AMEX): The Home of Small and Mid-Caps

Unlike the NYSE, which mainly lists large companies, this exchange focuses on mid-sized and small companies, making it suitable for investors seeking growth-oriented firms.

U.S. Stock Market Trading Hours: Regular, Pre-market, and After-hours

Regular Trading Hours

All three exchanges operate in the same time zone.

• Eastern Time: 09:30~16:00
• Korean Time: 23:30~06:00 (During Daylight Saving Time: 22:30~05:00)

Pre-market(Pre-trading)

Provides early trading opportunities before the regular session.

• Eastern Time: 04:00~09:30
• Korean Time: 18:00~23:30 (During Daylight Saving Time: 17:00~22:30)

After-hours(After-market)

Additional trading hours after the close of the regular session.

• Eastern Time: 16:00~20:00
• Korean Time: Next day 06:00~10:00 (During Daylight Saving Time: 05:00~09:00)

Trading Regulations and Features

• Trading Currency: US Dollar(USD)
• Trading Unit: 1 share
• Price Limit: None (Unlike Korea, no limit on rapid price changes)
• Settlement Period: 2 business days (T+2)

The biggest difference from Korea is the absence of price limits. Since trading occurs overnight in Korea time, quick responses to sharp declines may be difficult, so caution is advised.

2025 U.S. Stock Market Holidays Schedule

Early Close Days: Important Dates to Note

On these dates, the market does not close entirely but closes early at 1:00 PM Eastern Time:

Comparison of Major Global Exchanges: Trading Hours by Country

For investors trading in multiple markets outside the U.S., here’s a summary.

Practical Investment Tips: Preparing for U.S. Market Holidays

Successful trading requires more than just knowing the times.

Plan Ahead: Before holidays, consider closing or adjusting your positions. Consecutive weekends and holidays can increase volatility on Monday open.

Watch Daylight Saving Transitions: The time changes on the second Sunday in March and the first Sunday in November. Trading hours shift by 1 hour, so mark these dates on your calendar.

Monitor News: Review news and market outlooks before and after holidays. Economic data releases or policy changes during holidays can cause sharp movements upon reopening.

Utilize Pre-market and After-hours Trading: Trading outside regular hours is possible but involves lower liquidity and wider spreads, so proceed cautiously.

Conclusion

Accurately understanding the U.S. stock market’s holiday schedule and trading hours is the first step toward efficient investing. Familiarize yourself with the 2025 schedule and develop your trading strategy accordingly to minimize unnecessary losses and maximize opportunities. Always check the official exchange websites for the latest information.