Nasdaq Stocks Set to Surge with 24-Hour Trading by 2026

Nasdaq has announced plans to introduce 24-hour trading by the second half of 2026, a move inspired by the continuous activity of the crypto market. This initiative aims to enhance market inclusivity and cater to the growing global investment landscape. Nasdaq President Tal Cohen has highlighted the importance of this shift, noting that it will provide investors with more flexibility and opportunities to engage in trading activities around the clock.

The exchange operator has already begun discussions with regulators to ensure a smooth transition to 24-hour trading. The plan is to implement this change on a five-days-a-week basis, allowing for continuous market activity from Monday to Friday. This move is seen as a significant step towards modernizing traditional financial markets and aligning them more closely with the dynamic nature of the crypto market.

By adopting a 24-hour trading model, Nasdaq aims to attract a broader range of investors who are accustomed to the round-the-clock trading available in the crypto market. This shift is expected to increase liquidity and participation, making the market more accessible and efficient for both retail and institutional investors. The initiative also reflects Nasdaq's commitment to innovation and its efforts to stay competitive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

The decision to introduce 24-hour trading is part of a broader strategy to integrate elements of the crypto market into traditional financial systems. This move is likely to have a significant impact on the way investors approach trading, as it will provide them with more opportunities to capitalize on market movements and make informed decisions. The implementation of this plan is expected to be closely monitored by regulators and industry experts, who will assess its impact on market stability and investor protection.

Cohen explained that the decision is driven by a surge in global retail investment. More investors from international markets are entering the US stock market due to lower barriers and increased interest in assets like exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This trend highlights the growing demand for greater market accessibility. Cohen noted that the US equities markets process millions of messages per second, and every incremental change – whether in trading rules or the guardrails that protect investors– requires seamless industry-wide coordination, thoughtful planning, testing, and coordinated implementation.

Despite these concerns, Cohen believes Nasdaq has the technological capabilities to support 24-hour trading. The move aligns with the crypto industry’s continuous trading model. Unlike traditional stock markets, the crypto market operates 24/7 without