2026 US Stock Market Opening Guide: Times, Holidays, and Exchanges at a Glance

The U.S. stock market is not limited to a single exchange; it mainly includes the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and the American Stock Exchange, which are the three major markets. Although each exchange operates independently, in most cases, opening and closing times are synchronized. For Taiwanese investors, the key is to understand the correct time difference conversion.

Essential Knowledge for Taiwanese Investors: Local Time for U.S. Stock Market Opening

U.S. stock trading is affected by daylight saving time and standard time, with corresponding adjustments to the time difference. In 2025, daylight saving time ends on November 2nd at 2:00 AM, after which the regular trading hours (Taiwan time) are from 10:30 PM to 5:00 AM the next day.

Below are the corresponding times in Taiwan for the three major U.S. stock trading sessions:

Details of U.S. Stock Trading System

Trading Rules Overview

• Regular Market Hours: Monday to Friday, Eastern Time 9:30-16:00
• Pre-market Trading: Monday to Friday, Eastern Time 4:00-9:30
• After-hours Trading: Monday to Friday, Eastern Time 16:00-20:00
• Trading Instruments: Priced in USD, minimum trading unit is 1 share
• Settlement Cycle: T+3 (settlement occurs three trading days after transaction)
• Fees: Manual orders approximately 1%, electronic orders 0.5%-1%

Important Notes on Daylight Saving Time and Standard Time Changes

The U.S. time system changes twice a year; Taiwanese investors must pay attention:

• Start of Daylight Saving Time: Second Sunday in March at 2:00 AM, clocks move forward 1 hour
• Start of Standard Time: First Sunday in November at 2:00 AM, clocks move back 1 hour
• Impact on Trading Hours: During standard time, U.S. market opening times are 1 hour later than during daylight saving time (Taiwan time)

Note that some states may have different regulations; investors should stay updated on official announcements regarding time adjustments.

Complete List of U.S. Stock Market Holidays in 2026

On U.S. federal holidays, exchanges are closed or close early. Investors should plan ahead:

Introduction to the Three Major U.S. Stock Exchanges

New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)

The NYSE is the world’s largest stock exchange by total market capitalization of listed companies. It has over 3,500 listed companies and employs a hybrid trading model—combining electronic trading systems with floor traders who play roles in price setting and large institutional trades.

NASDAQ Stock Market

NASDAQ is the world’s first all-electronic stock trading platform, with all trading conducted online. It mainly lists high-tech companies (such as Apple, Microsoft, etc.), and investors can participate directly via phone or internet.

American Stock Exchange (AMEX / NYSE American)

The AMEX is the third-largest U.S. exchange, similar in trading mode to NYSE but focusing on small- and mid-cap stocks. Its unique feature is offering trading of stocks, futures, and derivatives simultaneously. After being acquired by NYSE in 2008, it was officially renamed NYSE American.

Major International Stock Market Trading Hours and Taiwan Time Difference

For international portfolio allocation, here are the trading hours and Taiwan time differences for other popular stock markets:

Mastering the opening times and trading rules of the U.S. stock market is the first step to successful international stock investing. Taiwanese investors should adjust their trading plans flexibly according to daylight saving time changes and stay aware of holiday schedules to seize every trading opportunity.