Share Market Timings: Opening & Closing Time in India

The Indian stock exchanges are represented by the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which are one of the most dynamic stock exchanges in the world. Mainly understanding the timing of the stock market is a very important thing to the traders and investors which helps in making informed trading decisions.

Here’s detailed information on stock market timings in India.

Stock Market Timings in India

The Indian stock market follows a fixed schedule on every trading day for both the exchanges NSE and BSE.

• Opening Time: 9:15 AM (IST)
• Closing Time: 3:30 PM (IST)
• Trading Days : Monday to Friday except market holidays

Timing Segments in the Indian Stock Market

Understanding the different market segments can help you plan your trading strategies better

Pre-market Session (9:00 AM - 9:15 AM)

The pre-market session opens from 9:00 AM - 9:15 AM is the period when traders can place orders before the market opens, orders get matched, but no trades are executed. The main purpose of the pre-market session is to calculate the opening price for the market based on overnight developments and global cues.

Pre-market prices are determined based on the demand and supply basis of stocks before the market opens. This helps investors get a clearer picture of the day’s expected market movement.

Normal Market Session (9:15 AM - 3:30 PM)

The normal market session is open from 09:15 – 03:30. This is when active trading or investors takes place. The session includes both the segments such as intraday trading and delivery trading.

Most traders and investors make their decisions during this time as liquidity is the highest, and price fluctuations are more pronounced.

Post-market Session (3:40 PM - 4:00 PM)

The post-market session from 3:40 PM - 4:00 PM allows investors to place orders that will be executed the next day. Trades aren’t executed in real-time, but this session helps with order matching and settlement purposes.

It allows you to adjust or place orders after the market has closed without waiting for the next day.

What are Aftermarket Orders?

One of the great features of the Indian stock market is Aftermarket Order (AMOs). These orders allow you to place buy or sell orders after regular market hours either before the market opens or after it closes.

You can place an AMO at any time during the night, and the order will be executed when the market opens the following day.

If you're an investor with having busy schedule or if you want to place orders during non-market hours like evening or night, AMOs give you the flexibility to plan your trades accordingly.

What is Muhurat Trading?

Muhurat Trading is a special trading session held every year during Diwali day, the festival of lights. This symbolic event is considered as auspicious day, and it’s believed that trading on this day brings prosperity towards investments in the upcoming year.

Timing: Muhurat trading typically happens in the evening and lasts for one hour. Upon exchange fixed timings.

Impact on Muhurat Day: While Muhurat trading has no direct impact on market trends, many traders consider it a festive way to begin with new investments or add new to existing investments. It’s more of a cultural tradition that attracts traders due to its historical significance.

How to Choose Perfect Timings on Stock Market? 

While the market opens on a standard schedule, choosing the right time to trade depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and strategy. Here are a few tips to help you decide the best time for your trading style.

For Active Traders

• The Normal Market Session from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM, it is ideal to watch the market closely, track price movements, and make your trades based on live market conditions.

For Long-term Investors

• For long-term investments, you may prefer trading during times of lower volatility and noise, like the pre-market or post-market sessions. Here, you can place your orders without the rush of market movements.

For Global Traders

• If you are trading stocks based on global developments, it’s best to monitor global markets and use pre-market and post-market sessions to position your trades before the regular market session starts.

Consider Global Market Timing

• Stock market movements are often influenced by changes in major international markets like the U.S., UK, and Europe. Always stay updated on international markets and global news, as it often affects Indian markets.

Conclusion

Choosing the right stock market timings depends on your trading style, whether you're focused on short-term gains or long-term investments. Intraday traders can focus on the regular market hours to take advantage of quick price movements.

Investors looking for a more passive approach might find pre-market or post-market sessions more convenient. Don’t forget to take part in Muhurat trading for a fun, auspicious start to your trading journey during Diwali!

By understanding and optimizing these timings, you can make more informed and effective decisions in the Indian stock market.

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