UK stock market opening times

Stock market trading hours vary throughout the world, so you may be wondering what are the UK stock market opening times. 

Investors have been scoring big time with tech companies like Tesla or Nvidia which are famed for being the top funds to invest in. Or if you’re a loyal Tesco or Sainsbury’s shopper, you may be interested in investing in supermarkets.

If you’re dipping your toes into the world of UK equities, then it’s worth checking share tips 2024 to get a weekly roundup of the top stocks to consider for your portfolio. 

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Or, if you’re looking to diversify your portfolio, check out the best-performing US stocks, European stocks and if you should invest in Japan.

But regardless of whether you are a newcomer or a long-time investor, it’s worth knowing when is the best time to trade.

Most stock markets are open throughout the working week, but that doesn’t always mean Monday to Friday. For example, the Saudi Stock Exchange is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

The global stock market opening times also vary from region to region based on holidays. Every country in the world has its own traditions, be it a bank holiday, the Emperor’s Birthday in Japan, or the Carnival in Brazil.

We look at the UK stock market opening times throughout the year.

UK stock market opening times in 2024

The London Stock Exchange is typically open on weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm with a small break between 12:00 pm and 12:02 pm. This is unlike Asian and Middle Eastern markets which close for an hour. 

With a total trading window of 8 hours and 28 minutes, the exchange has some of the longest opening hours in the world. In comparison, the trading session in New York is just 6 hours 30 minutes.

The London Stock Exchange is shut on weekends, and some big City traders can place deals outside of the standard stock market opening times. The exchange conducts what is known as extended hours or after-hours trading, which takes place when the market is closed.

Will the London Stock Exchange be open during bank holidays in 2024?

While the London Stock Exchange generally stays open each weekday, bank holidays in England and Wales can impact its trading services. We’ve rounded up all the bank holidays coming up this year and the impact they may have on the UK stock market. 

Source: London Stock Exchange