U.S. Stock Market Schedule: Will NYSE and Nasdaq Open on MLK Day 2026?

On January 19, 2026, the U.S. financial markets, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, will close in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day). This federal holiday leads to a complete halt in trading across major U.S. stock exchanges. Investors should note that there will be no pre-market, regular, or after-hours trading conducted on this day.

Market Closures on MLK Day 2026

The NYSE and Nasdaq will be entirely shut down, marking MLK Day as the first significant market closure of the year. Alongside stock exchanges, the bond markets will also observe this holiday. This includes trading for Treasury securities, corporate and municipal bonds, as well as mortgage-backed securities.

Impact on Banks and Mail Services

Most U.S. banks will close their branches on January 19, limiting in-person banking services. Although ATMs and online banking will remain operational, services that require branch visits, such as wire transfers or loan processing, will be unavailable.

Additionally, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will suspend regular mail deliveries. No residential or business mail will be processed, with retail locations closed. While Priority Express Mail may have limited operations, normal service resumes on January 20, 2026.

Post-Holiday Trading Resumes

After the holiday, trading will return to normal on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, with markets reopening at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. This includes the resumption of bond trading and related activities. Investors should plan accordingly, especially as any settlements impacted by the holiday will also be postponed to the next business day.

Future Market Closures in 2026

The next holiday after MLK Day is Presidents’ Day, scheduled for February 16, 2026. This day will also see complete closures across stock and bond markets, as well as banks and many government offices.

2026 U.S. Market Holiday Schedule

Understanding the U.S. stock market schedule is essential for effective planning and trading strategies. Knowing when the markets are closed helps investors make informed decisions regarding time-sensitive transactions.