2025 U.S. Stock Market Complete Guide: From Market Holidays to Trading Hours at a Glance (Including Korea Time Comparison Chart)

Let’s Get the Timing Right for U.S. Stock Trading

Investing in U.S. stocks requires more than just analyzing individual stocks. You need to know the opening and closing times, market holidays, and trading regulations precisely to minimize losses and seize opportunities. Especially since the U.S. observes daylight saving time and the significant time difference with Korea can cause the date to change even when trading at the same time. This article covers the trading hours of major U.S. stock exchanges, the 2025 market holiday schedule, and the operating hours of major global stock markets. Refer to the organized table for more efficient trading planning.

What Are the Characteristics of the Three Major U.S. Stock Exchanges?

The U.S. stock market is led by three exchanges. Each has different listed company sizes and characteristics, so understanding these features before investing is crucial.

New York Stock Exchange(NYSE): The Largest Traditional Powerhouse

Founded in 1792, the New York Stock Exchange is the oldest and largest stock exchange in the world. Currently, about 2,400 companies are listed, with a total market capitalization of approximately $23 trillion. It mainly trades traditional blue-chip stocks like Berkshire Hathaway, Johnson & Johnson, Visa, and Walmart.

NASDAQ(: The Hub of IT and Tech Stocks

Established in 1971, NASDAQ started as an over-the-counter market but has grown rapidly to become the second-largest exchange in the world after NYSE. It primarily lists technology companies like Apple, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, making it a focus for investors interested in growth stocks and innovative companies.

) American Stock Exchange###AMEX(: Gateway for Small and Medium Enterprises

One of the three major U.S. exchanges, the American Stock Exchange mainly lists mid-sized and small companies. Unlike the large-cap stocks on NYSE and tech stocks on NASDAQ, it offers opportunities for investors seeking growth potential in smaller firms.

U.S. Stock Market Trading Hours and Regulations — What You Need to Know

) Basic Trading Hours: Eastern Time

All three exchanges—NYSE, NASDAQ, and AMEX—operate on the same schedule:

• Regular Trading: 09:30 AM – 04:00 PM Eastern Time
• Pre-market: 04:00 AM – 09:30 AM ET
• After-hours: 04:00 PM – 08:00 PM ET

When does this translate to Korean time?

For Korean investors, the relevant times are based on Korea Standard Time (KST). Using regular trading hours as a reference:

• Regular Trading: 11:30 PM – 06:00 AM (next day) ###During Daylight Saving Time: 10:30 PM – 05:00 AM(
• Pre-market: 06:00 PM – 11:30 PM )During DST: 05:00 PM – 10:30 PM(
• After-hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM (next day) )During DST: 05:00 AM – 09:00 AM(

) Trading Regulations: Differences from Korea

U.S. markets trade exclusively in USD, with settlement completed two business days later. The most important point is that there are no price limit bands in U.S. stocks. Unlike Korea, where price fluctuations are limited, U.S. stocks can experience rapid and large swings, especially during night hours, so traders must be prepared for high volatility.

The following table summarizes the trading regulations:

*During Daylight Saving Time

Complete Schedule of U.S. Market Holidays in 2025

Unlike Korean markets, the U.S. market observes about 12–13 holidays annually. It’s essential to check these dates in advance to avoid trading halts and potential losses.

) Full Market Holidays

Early Close Days (Close the next day morning in Korea

In addition to full holidays, certain dates feature early market closures:

When U.S. market holidays approach, plan to close or adjust your positions in advance, and always check the latest schedules via news or official notices.

Comparing Major Global Stock Market Trading Hours

To trade stocks from other countries alongside U.S. stocks, you need to know their trading hours. Here is a summary of the main exchanges in Korea, Japan, the UK, China, and Hong Kong:

*During Daylight Saving Time

Time Management in U.S. Stock Investment Is Key to Success

Accurately understanding trading hours in the U.S. is directly linked to profitability. Missing market holidays or misjudging trading times can prevent you from executing orders at your desired moments. Since trading occurs during night hours Korea time, careful planning is essential.

Market hours and holidays are subject to change, so always verify the latest information before trading. Use this guide to develop a successful investment strategy.