Cboe Global Markets Proposes Near 24x5 Trading Hours for U.S. Equities Starting December 2026

Cboe Global Markets Proposes Extended Trading Hours for U.S. Equities

Cboe Global Markets, a leading global market operator and pioneer in equity derivatives, makes significant strides toward expanding trading access by proposing near 24x5 trading hours for U.S. equities on its Cboe EDGX Equities Exchange. Following a detailed proposal submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company plans to launch the initiative in December 2026, contingent upon receiving regulatory approvals and ensuring readiness throughout the industry infrastructure. This initiative aims to provide trading access for all listed National Market System (NMS) stocks from Sunday at 9 p.m. ET to Friday at 8 p.m. ET, including a scheduled one-hour operational pause from 8 to 9 p.m. ET on weekdays, excluding U.S. market holidays.

The decision to extend trading hours reflects a marked increase in demand for U.S. equities outside of conventional market hours. Cboe reports an impressive 590% surge in average daily volume during Early Trading Hours from February 2022 to February 2026, indicating a substantial market shift towards 24-hour trading capabilities. Currently, Cboe operates two of its four exchanges from 4 a.m. ET to 7 a.m. ET, but this new proposal aims to enhance accessibility and liquidity further. With a proven track record in around-the-clock trading through its index futures and options, as well as its Global FX markets, Cboe is well-positioned to manage the operational complexities of extended trading.

In enhancing its service offerings, Cboe focuses on improving market access and delivering high-quality, real-time data. The Cboe One U.S. Equities Feed, which achieved a 20.2% share of on-exchange trading in U.S. equities in 2025, serves as a critical component in this initiative. Oliver Sung, Head of North American Equities at Cboe, emphasizes the importance of collaboration with market participants to ensure a smooth rollout of this overnight trading capability. This collaborative approach not only underscores Cboe's commitment to innovation but also prioritizes robust market and investor protections, highlighting the evolving landscape of equity trading in response to changing market demands.

In related developments, Cboe continues to reinforce its position as a leading player in the global financial ecosystem by leveraging technology and data analytics to meet the needs of contemporary traders. As the company implements these broad changes, it actively seeks feedback and collaboration from various stakeholders, showcasing a commitment to maintaining market integrity. The proposal for extended trading hours represents a forward-thinking strategy that aligns with emerging trends in the investment landscape, potentially reshaping the way investors access and engage with U.S. equities.