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Indian Stock Markets to Remain Open on Sunday, February 1, 2026, for Union Budget Trading
In a special move to facilitate real-time market reactions to the Union Budget 2026, Indian stock markets will remain open for live trading on Sunday, February 1, 2026, despite it being a regular weekend holiday.
Both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), along with commodity markets, will conduct a special Budget Day trading session, allowing investors and traders to react instantly to policy announcements.
Stock Market Trading Timings on February 1, 2026
As per official circulars issued by NSE and BSE on January 16, 2026, trading on Budget Sunday will follow normal weekday market timings.
Equity Market Timings
| Session | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Open Session* | 09:00 AM | 09:08 AM |
| Normal Trading Session | 09:15 AM | 03:30 PM |
| Trade Modification End | — | 04:15 PM |
*Random closure may occur in the last one minute of the pre-open session.
Other Market Sessions on Budget Sunday
Apart from regular equity trading, several other market-related sessions will also be active.
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Block Deal Session – I | 08:45 AM – 09:00 AM |
| Special Pre-Open Session (IPO & Relisted Securities) | 09:00 AM – 09:45 AM |
| Call Auction Illiquid Session | 09:30 AM – 03:30 PM |
| Block Deal Session – II | 02:05 PM – 02:20 PM |
| Post-Closing Session | 03:40 PM – 04:00 PM |
| Trade Modification Cut-off | 04:15 PM |
Important Note: February 1, 2026, is expected to be a settlement holiday. Hence, T0 trading will not be available.
Commodity Market Trading on February 1, 2026
Commodity markets will also operate on Budget Sunday. As per the MCX circular dated January 16, 2026, the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) will remain open under special arrangements.
Key Commodity Trading Window
| Market | Trading Timings |
|---|---|
| MCX Commodity Market | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM |
What Budget Day Trading Means for Commodity Traders
The Union Budget often includes announcements that directly influence commodity prices, such as:
- Import and export duties
- Taxation policies
- Agriculture and fertilizer subsidies
- Energy, fuel, and infrastructure spending
Due to these factors, traders often witness:
- Sharp price movements
- Higher volatility
- Increased margin requirements
About the Union Budget 2026
The Union Budget 2026 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her ninth consecutive Budget.
Prepared by the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance, the Budget outlines the government’s roadmap for economic growth, taxation, public spending, and welfare initiatives.
Why Markets React Strongly to the Budget
- Investors reassess long-term portfolio strategies
- Traders capitalize on short-term volatility
- Key sectors like banking, infrastructure, FMCG, and capital goods see sharp moves
To support real-time participation, exchanges keep markets open even on a non-trading day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are Indian stock markets open on Sunday, February 1, 2026?
Markets are open to allow investors and traders to react immediately to Union Budget 2026 announcements.
2. Will NSE and BSE follow normal trading hours?
Yes, both exchanges will follow regular weekday trading timings.
3. Is MCX open on Budget Sunday?
Yes, MCX will remain open from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM under special Budget Day trading.
4. Is T0 trading available on February 1, 2026?
No, February 1, 2026, is expected to be a settlement holiday, so T0 trading will not be available.
5. Which sectors are most impacted by the Union Budget?
Banking, infrastructure, capital goods, FMCG, energy, and consumption-related sectors usually see major impact.
Disclaimer
This article is published for educational and informational purposes only. The securities or market references mentioned do not constitute investment advice or recommendations.
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