2025 U.S. Stock Market Complete Guide: Opening Hours, Holidays, and Trading Regulations at a Glance

Introduction

There are three essential things you must know when investing in US stocks: opening hours, holidays, and trading regulations. Especially since the US observes daylight saving time and has a significant time difference with Korea, not knowing the exact trading hours can disrupt your investment plans. Fortunately, this article summarizes the trading hours of major US stock exchanges, US market holidays in 2025, and the operating hours of major international stock markets all in one place.

The 3 Major US Stock Exchanges

Before starting your investment, it’s helpful to know which exchange your stocks are traded on.

New York Stock Exchange(NYSE): The world’s largest exchange

Founded on May 17, 1792, the New York Stock Exchange is the oldest stock exchange in the world and ranks first in market capitalization globally. About 2,400 companies are listed, with a total market cap of approximately $23 trillion. Major traditional stocks such as Berkshire Hathaway(BRK.A), Johnson & Johnson(JNJ), Visa(V), and Walmart(WMT) are mainly traded here.

NASDAQ(NASDAQ): The tech hub

Established on February 8, 1971, NASDAQ initially started as an over-the-counter market but has grown rapidly to become the second-largest exchange in the world today. It is characterized by a concentration of technology stocks such as Apple(AAPL), Microsoft(MSFT), and NVIDIA(NVDA).

American Stock Exchange(AMEX): The stage for mid-sized and small companies

One of the three major US exchanges, the American Stock Exchange, primarily trades stocks of mid-sized and small companies, unlike the large-cap stocks on the NYSE.

US Stock Market Trading Hours and Regulations: Based on Korea Time

While the trading hours are the same for all three exchanges, be aware that when converted to Korea time, the date changes, and during daylight saving time, the hours are moved forward by one hour.

*Daylight Saving Time: Second Sunday in March ~ First Sunday in November

Trading Regulations Checklist

All three exchanges follow these trading regulations:

• Trading Currency: US Dollar(USD)
• Trading Unit: 1 share
• Price Limit: None (Major difference from Korea)
• Settlement Date: 2 business days
• Fees: Vary by brokerage and intermediary

Important Notice: US exchanges have no price limits, so sharp fluctuations can occur. Since the market operates at night Korea time, quick responses may be necessary.

US Market Holidays in 2025: Complete List

Holidays to avoid when planning your investments:

Early Close Days – Be Careful

On certain dates, the US markets close early:

Global Market Opening and Closing Hours: See Other Countries Too

If you invest in stocks outside the US, the following information will be useful:

Conclusion

Accurately understanding US market holidays and trading hours is fundamental to successful investing. Since exchange operating hours and holidays can change, always check the latest information. Use this data to develop your trading strategies and conduct more efficient investments.