India’s leading stock exchanges, NSE and BSE, have announced 15 trading holidays for 2026. These holidays, spread across national festivals, religious occasions, and key public observances, will apply to the equity segment. The schedule ensures alignment with cultural diversity while maintaining market efficiency and transparency.
India’s financial markets will see 15 trading holidays in 2026, as confirmed by the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). The holiday calendar covers major national festivals, religious occasions, and public holidays, ensuring that trading schedules remain consistent and predictable for investors and institutions.
Key highlights from the announcement include
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The equity segment will remain closed for 15 days in 2026.
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Holidays include Republic Day, Holi, Ram Navami, Independence Day, Diwali, and Christmas.
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Both NSE and BSE have aligned their schedules to maintain uniformity across exchanges.
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The holiday list reflects India’s cultural and religious diversity, balancing national and regional observances.
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Trading holidays are critical for ensuring operational efficiency and allowing market participants to plan ahead.
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The calendar also includes closures on Good Friday, Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Zuha, and Guru Nanak Jayanti.
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Special trading sessions may be announced separately, particularly around Diwali (Muhurat trading).
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The exchanges emphasized transparency by publishing the holiday list well in advance.
Market participants, including brokers and investors, can use the calendar to plan trading strategies and settlement cycles.
The holiday schedule applies to the equity segment, while commodity and currency markets may have separate notifications.
The announcement of trading holidays is a routine yet significant step in ensuring smooth functioning of India’s capital markets. By aligning with national and cultural observances, NSE and BSE reinforce their role as institutions that balance global financial practices with local traditions.
For investors, the calendar provides clarity and predictability, enabling better planning of trades, settlements, and portfolio strategies. The inclusion of major festivals and national days also reflects the exchanges’ sensitivity to India’s diverse social fabric.
Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard, Mint, NSE India