Markets Set for Sunday Open as Budget 2026 Unveiled
Markets Set for Sunday Open as Budget 2026 Unveiled
NSE and BSE announce a rare Sunday open on Feb 1 for Budget 2026, with pre-open at 9:00-9:08 and regular trading 9:15-3:30, to capture early market reactions.
Markets in India are preparing for a rare Sunday trading session on February 1, 2026, to coincide with the presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The exchanges have declared February 1 a 'special trading day' and will operate during regular hours. The NSE circular notes that trading will be live 'on account of the presentation of the Union Budget'. The pre-open market will start at 9 a.m. and end at 9.08 a.m., and the normal market will function between 9.15 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. The BSE has issued a similar circular confirming the Sunday schedule.
This Sunday trading reflects the markets' need for immediate price discovery as new budget details are revealed. A rare move means traders can place orders ahead of the official market opening for the week, potentially amplifying early moves in key indices and stocks.
Analysts caution that the unusual session could bring higher volatility, with headlines from the budget likely to drive sharp price swings. Investors are urged to consider risk and ensure they have a clear plan for Sunday liquidity and weekend risk management.
Overall, the move underscores the budget's significance and the desire of India's financial markets to react swiftly to policy signals. Traders should stay tuned for any updates from the exchanges as February 1 approaches.
