The second Monday of October, known as Columbus Day in the U.S., often leaves investors wondering about the operation of stock markets. In a surprising twist, both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, despite generally following the federal holiday calendar for closures, will remain open and function as usual.
Yet, there are a few exceptions to this rule. The final two holidays on the 2024 exchange calendar, Thanksgiving and Christmas, will see both exchanges closed with additional shortened trading hours following Thanksgiving, and on Christmas Eve.
It's important to note that while the stock markets remain open, other federal facility operations such as post offices and the Federal Reserve will be closed. Additionally, commercial banks aligning with federal holiday schedules and bond markets will be closed too.