What Time Do Futures Close?
Introduction: Understanding Futures Market Hours
Futures trading is a 24-hour marketplace, offering traders worldwide the flexibility to trade at almost any time. However, knowing the exact closing and opening hours of futures markets is crucial for maximizing profits and managing risks effectively. From the CME holiday schedule to trading on days like Labor Day or July 4th, understanding the nuances of futures trading hours can make or break your trades. So, what time do futures close, and why does it matter so much? Let’s dive in.
5 Things to Know Before the Market Opens
Before diving into daily trading, here are 5 things to know before the market opens:
- Global Market Overview
- Pre-market Futures Activity
- Economic Calendar Events
- Major Company Earnings
- Technical Levels to Watch
Understanding these factors helps you prepare for when does futures market open and what to expect during trading hours.
When Does the Futures Market Open?
The futures market open schedule varies by exchange and product. Most U.S. futures market open at 5:00 PM Central Time (CT) on Sunday and continue trading until 4:00 PM CT on Friday. Understanding when the futures market open is crucial for:
- Planning your trading schedule
- Capitalizing on overnight moves
- Managing positions across different time zones
Understanding Futures Trading Fees
Futures trading fees can significantly impact your profitability. Here's what you need to know:
- Exchange fees
- Clearing fees
- Broker commissions
- Platform fees
- Data feed costs
At Funded Futures Network, we maintain transparent futures trading fees structures to help traders maximize their potential returns.
Why Knowing the Closing Time of Futures Markets Matters for Traders
Futures markets don’t follow the same hours as the stock market, which is why traders need to stay informed. Closing times vary by exchange, asset class, and even holidays. Why does this matter?
- Liquidity Considerations: Closing hours often affect liquidity and volatility.
- Strategic Planning: Knowing the closing time ensures you can manage open positions and avoid unwanted surprises.
- Holiday Adjustments: On holidays like Veterans Day or Christmas Eve, markets operate on modified schedules. Is the stock market open on Christmas Eve? Not always, and futures markets follow similar trends.
What Time Do Futures Close?
Futures markets operate across multiple exchanges, each with unique trading hours. Below is a breakdown of major exchanges and their respective closing times.
CME Futures Closing Times
The CME (Chicago Mercantile Exchange) is one of the most prominent futures exchanges globally. Here’s the breakdown:
- Regular Hours: CME futures generally close at 4:00 PM Central Time (CT) for most contracts.
- Holiday Adjustments: The CME holiday schedule often lists early closures, like at 12:00 PM CT on Christmas Eve or other holidays.
ICE Futures Market Hours
The Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) operates futures for commodities like energy and agriculture:
- Closing Times: ICE futures typically close at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).
- Holidays: Are markets open on Veterans Day? ICE generally remains open, but hours may vary.
Euronext Futures Market Hours
Euronext provides trading access in European markets:
- Closing Hours: Most contracts close at 6:00 PM Central European Time (CET).
- Holidays: Expect closures or early hours for major European holidays.
Tokyo Commodity Exchange (TOCOM) Futures Market Hours
- Closing Times: TOCOM futures close at 5:30 PM Tokyo Time.
- Unique Feature: TOCOM’s hours align with Asian trading sessions, offering unique opportunities.
Hong Kong Futures Exchange (HKEX) Futures Market Hours
- Closing Times: HKEX futures generally close at 4:30 PM Hong Kong Time.
- Holidays: Closed for local holidays like the Lunar New Year.
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) Futures Market Hours
- Closing Times: ASX futures close at 4:30 PM Sydney Time.
- Holiday Considerations: Watch for early closures on days like Christmas Eve.
Futures Market Thanksgiving and Holiday Hours
Futures markets adjust hours on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Labor Day, and July 4th. For example:
- Thanksgiving: Most U.S. futures markets close early, typically around 1:00 PM CT.
- Is the futures market closed on July 4th? Yes, it’s closed during U.S. Independence Day.
Christmas Eve Stock Futures Market Hours
- Is the stock market open on Christmas Eve? Stock markets often close early, and futures markets follow suit, typically closing around 12:00 PM CT.
Labor Day Futures Market Hours
- Closed for Labor Day: Most futures markets are closed for Labor Day, though global markets may remain open.
When Is the Best Time to Trade Futures?
Timing is everything in futures trading. The best time to trade futures often depends on the asset class:
- High Liquidity Hours: Trade U.S. futures during overlapping hours with European markets (8:00 AM to 12:00 PM ET).
- Volatility Windows: Watch for major economic announcements or earnings reports.
- Avoid Low Liquidity: Late-night hours often result in wider spreads and unpredictable movements.
How Many Trading Days Are in a Year?
Futures markets don’t adhere strictly to the stock market calendar, but most exchanges have around 252 trading days annually.
How Many Trading Days Are in a Month?
On average, there are 21 trading days per month, but this can vary based on holidays.
Conclusion: What Time Do Futures Close?
So, what time do futures close? The answer depends on the exchange, asset, and even the day. For traders, understanding these nuances is vital for strategic planning, avoiding unnecessary risks, and capitalizing on market opportunities. Whether it’s the CME holiday schedule, Labor Day, or the best time to trade futures, staying informed ensures you’re always one step ahead.
FAQs: What Time Do Futures Close?
While we encourage traders to see the CME website for the exact details year to year, here are some holiday hours that you should be aware of.
Is the Futures Market Open on Juneteenth?
Yes, most futures markets remain open on Juneteenth, though some may have modified hours.
Is the Futures Market Closed on July 4th?
Yes, U.S. futures markets are closed on July 4th to observe Independence Day.
Are Markets Open on Presidents Day?
Yes, most futures markets operate on Presidents Day, though stock markets may close.
What Time Do Futures Markets Open After a Holiday?
Futures markets typically reopen at 5:00 PM CT on the evening of the holiday.
What Time Does the Futures Market Open and Close on Sundays?
Futures markets generally open at 5:00 PM CT on Sundays and close at 4:00 PM CT the following day. At FFN all traders are required to stop trading at 4:50 PM ET unless otherwise notified for an early market closure.
FAQs About Funded Futures Network
What Is Funded Futures Network and How Does It Work?
Funded Futures Network is a proprietary trading firm that funds traders. After passing an evaluation process, traders can withdraw profits while trading with firm capital.
What Funded Plans Does Funded Futures Network Offer?
FFN offers funded trading accounts up to $250,000, providing flexibility for traders of all levels. Funded Futures Network provides is a prop firm that allows traders to pay a small monthly fee to get data, a platform license and the chance to withdraw the profits traders make in the markets without risking their own capital.
What Is the Minimum Amount of Money to Start Trading Futures?
With FFN, you don’t need personal capital to trade. You only pay an evaluation fee to qualify for funding. This is great for new traders learning how to trade.
How Can I Start Trading With Funded Futures Network?
Sign up for an evaluation, pass the trading requirements, and start trading with a funded account. See the rules page for details on what you need to do in order to get Funded at FFN.
Are There Any Futures Trading Fees With Funded Futures?
Yes, standard futures trading fees apply, but FFN’s competitive structure ensures minimal costs for traders. There are also standard broker commissions with each trade you place that comes directly out of your broker account balance.
By understanding market hours, holidays, and the unique offerings of firms like Funded Futures Network, you can optimize your trading strategy and achieve greater success in the dynamic world of futures trading.
