#SECPushesFor24HourTrading

A NEW CHAPTER FOR U.S. EQUITY MARKETS

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced a public roundtable scheduled for September 17, 2026, in Washington, D.C., to discuss the future of extended trading hours for U.S. equity markets. The event reflects the ongoing evolution of market structure as exchanges explore broader trading access for investors.

SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins stated that the discussion will focus on expanding trading opportunities while maintaining strong investor protection and market integrity. Key topics include overnight market operations, infrastructure readiness, operational resilience, and the opportunities associated with longer trading sessions.

The meeting will be streamed publicly through the SEC, and the Commission is also inviting public feedback as part of the consultation process.

EXTENDED TRADING CONTINUES TO EXPAND

The roundtable follows several important developments across U.S. exchanges during 2026.

Nasdaq has received approval for a 23-hour weekday trading model, consisting of a Day Session from 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET and a Night Session from 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM ET, with implementation expected during the third quarter of 2026.

The New York Stock Exchange has also proposed extended trading hours for NYSE Arca, while the newer exchange 24X continues progressing toward its planned 23-hour weekday trading schedule following earlier regulatory approval.

GLOBAL EXCHANGES ARE EVOLVING

The trend extends beyond the United States.

On July 21, 2026, the London Stock Exchange announced plans for a separate extended-hours trading venue. Client testing is expected before the end of 2026, with exchange-traded products planned as the initial asset class during the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approval.

These developments highlight how major financial markets are exploring longer trading windows to better serve participants across different regions and time zones.

WHY MARKET HOURS ARE CHANGING

Financial markets have become increasingly global, with economic developments, corporate announcements, and international events occurring throughout the day.

Extended trading hours may provide investors with greater flexibility to respond to new information and participate in markets across different time zones without waiting for traditional opening hours.

Advances in trading technology and market infrastructure have also made longer operating schedules more practical than in previous years.

BUILDING A RELIABLE MARKET

Expanding market hours requires reliable technology, resilient trading systems, effective market oversight, and efficient clearing and settlement processes.

The SEC roundtable is expected to examine these operational considerations to help ensure that any future expansion supports both market efficiency and investor confidence.

LOOKING AHEAD

The September 17 discussion will not immediately change current market hours, but it represents another important step in the ongoing modernization of U.S. equity markets.

As exchanges continue investing in technology and infrastructure, extended trading sessions are becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation about the future of global financial markets.

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