U.S. Markets Closed Today for MLK Day Observance
The U.S. stock and bond markets are closed on January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This closure means no trading for U.S. listed stocks or bond markets today, and liquidity will not be available in cash equities.
Trading Resumes on January 20
After the holiday, trading will recommence on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The premarket session will begin at 4:00 a.m. ET, with the opening bell ringing at 9:30 a.m. ET. Market participants will benefit from increased liquidity starting then.
Market Overview on MLK Day
- No trading in the NYSE or Nasdaq on January 19, 2026.
- The bond market is also closed; no transactions will occur for Treasuries, municipals, or corporate bonds.
- After-hours trading is suspended today, with no updates on ETF net asset values.
Pre-market Trading Guidelines
Investors are encouraged to prepare for Tuesday’s market by planning their orders accordingly. It is advisable to utilize limit orders instead of market orders to hedge against potential price fluctuations at the market’s opening.
Key Dates and Planning Tips
- Markets closed: January 19, 2026 (MLK Day)
- Premarket resumes: January 20, 2026, at 4:00 a.m. ET
- Market opens: January 20, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. ET
- After-hours trading ends: January 20, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. ET
Ensure to review your allocations related to the S&P 500 prior to the market opening. Monitoring economic updates is vital as they can influence price shifts. Following a morning period of increased volatility, traders can expect more stable liquidity within the first half hour of trading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the stock market open for MLK Day?
No, the NYSE and Nasdaq will be closed on January 19, 2026, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Will bond markets operate on MLK Day?
The U.S. bond market is also closed, with no trading in fixed-income securities today.
How can I prepare for Tuesday’s market opening?
Consider using limit orders to manage risk effectively. Review any good-til-canceled (GTC) and stop orders to ensure alignment with your investment strategy.
In summary, with the markets closed today for MLK Day, traders should prepare their strategies for a productive reopening on January 20. Remember to stay vigilant regarding order placements and market trends as trading resumes.
