The stock market, encompassing both the Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange, will close early at 1 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
This early closure is in observance of the Christmas Eve holiday. Following this early close, United States stock markets will remain fully closed on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, for Christmas Day.
Understanding Holiday Market Hours
Stock markets often adjust their operating hours or close entirely in observance of major holidays. This practice allows market participants and staff to observe national holidays while maintaining market integrity.
Key Details for December 2024 Market Hours
Here's a quick overview of the stock market schedule around the Christmas holiday in 2024:
| Date | Event | Closing Time (ET) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 24, 2024 | Christmas Eve | 1:00 PM | Early Close |
| December 25, 2024 | Christmas Day | N/A | Closed |
Note: "ET" refers to Eastern Time, which is the standard time zone for major U.S. financial markets like the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange.
Why Early Closures?
Early closures on days like Christmas Eve are a common practice for U.S. stock markets. They serve several purposes:
- Holiday Observance: Allowing traders, brokers, and supporting staff to observe the holiday with family.
- Reduced Trading Volume: Trading activity typically decreases significantly on holidays or the day before, making a full day of operation less efficient.
- Operational Readiness: Preparing systems for the full closure on the actual holiday.
Knowing these schedules is crucial for investors and traders to plan their activities and manage their portfolios effectively around holiday periods.
