The New Era of Retail Investing: How 24/5 Trading Is Democratizing Global Market Participation

The financial markets are no longer bound by the 9-to-5 grind. Charles Schwab's recent expansion of 24/5 trading—a move that now allows retail investors to trade over 1,100 securities around the clock, five days a week—is a seismic shift in how everyday investors engage with the global economy. This isn't just a feature; it's a revolution. By dismantling the rigid walls of traditional market hours, Schwab is empowering retail investors to react in real time to global events, geopolitical tensions, and earnings surprises that ripple across time zones.

A Game-Changer for Retail Investors

Schwab's 24/5 trading, now accessible via the thinkorswim platform, has already proven its value. Since its February 2025 expansion, the platform has seen record overnight volumes, with clients reacting to developments like tariff policy changes and Middle East tensions. For example, the June 12, 2025, session saw trading volumes surge to over twice the average nightly level after news of regional instability spiked. This flexibility isn't just for the hyperactive trader—it's for anyone who wants to align their trading with their life, whether you're a European investor responding to U.S. earnings reports or an Asian trader capitalizing on overnight volatility in AI-driven stocks.

Consider Tesla (TSLA), one of the most actively traded names in the overnight session. With news cycles accelerating and Elon Musk's ventures spilling into global headlines, investors can now react to developments in the Middle East or a sudden regulatory shift in Europe without waiting for the next business day. Historically, Tesla's stock has shown strong performance following earnings beats, with a 57.14% win rate over three days and a 71.43% win rate over ten days. A maximum return of 9.62% was recorded 42 days after a beat, highlighting the potential for substantial gains in the medium term. This immediacy turns retail investors from spectators into participants in the global market drama.

The Globalization of Retail Trading

Schwab's 24/5 model isn't just about convenience—it's about democratizing access to a 24-hour world. International clients, for instance, have shown a particular appetite for stocks like Nio (NIO) and Recursion Pharmaceuticals (RXRX), which trade heavily overnight. This reflects a growing trend: retail investors are no longer confined to their local markets. They're building portfolios that span continents, and Schwab's platform gives them the tools to do so.

The June 12 surge in trading activity, triggered by Middle East tensions, is a case study in how retail investors can now hedge geopolitical risk. When news broke, Schwab clients swiftly adjusted their positions in energy stocks, defense contractors, and safe-haven assets like gold ETFs. This level of responsiveness was once the domain of institutional players. Now, it's within reach of the average investor.

The Risks and Rewards of Round-the-Clock Access

Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. The 24/5 model isn't for the faint of heart. Volatility can spike unexpectedly, and the lack of a traditional “market close” means emotions can run high. But for disciplined investors, this expansion is a goldmine. Take NVIDIA (NVDA), whose stock has seen overnight surges following AI breakthroughs and earnings reports. By trading outside regular hours, investors can avoid the noise of pre-market panic or post-earnings euphoria.

For those new to overnight trading, the key is to start small. Use Schwab's EXTO order type for eligible securities and focus on sectors you understand. For example, if you're bullish on AI's impact on healthcare, RXRX's overnight activity could offer a strategic entry point. Similarly, NIO's price swings, often driven by Chinese regulatory news, present opportunities for those attuned to Asian market dynamics.

The Future of Retail Investing Is Here

Schwab's 24/5 expansion isn't just a product—it's a glimpse into the future of investing. As markets become increasingly globalized, the ability to trade anytime, anywhere is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This shift also pressures other brokers to innovate, ensuring competition drives down costs and improves access.

For retail investors, the message is clear: adapt or be left behind. Schwab's model rewards those who can stay informed, stay agile, and stay ahead of the news cycle. Whether you're a full-time trader or a part-time investor, the 24/5 framework gives you the tools to participate in the global economy on your terms.

In the end, this isn't just about trading—it's about redefining what it means to be an investor in a 24-hour world. The markets are awake, and Schwab is making sure retail investors can keep up."""