Is the Stock Market Open on Budget Day 2026? MSE Confirms Trading on Feb 01

The Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSE) has announced that it will conduct a live trading session on February 01, 2026, the day the Union Budget 2026 is scheduled to be presented.

In a circular dated January 19, MSE informed its members that the exchange will conduct a full trading session on Budget Day, in line with standard market timings.

Stock Market Timings on Budget Day

According to the circular, trading on the Metropolitan Stock Exchange on February 01 will follow regular hours:

• Pre-open session: 9:00 am to 9:08 am
• Normal market trading: 9:15 am to 3:30 pm

These timings are similar to those followed by larger exchanges such as the NSE and BSE.

BSE and NSE Also Open on February 01

In separate circulars issued earlier this month, both BSE and NSE had confirmed that their exchanges would remain open for trading on February 01 due to the presentation of the Union Budget.

MSE to Begin Live Trading From January 27

Separately, CNBC-Awaaz reported that the Metropolitan Stock Exchange is set to start live trading from January 27, beginning with around 130 stocks. Clearing and settlement for these trades will be handled by its subsidiary, Metropolitan Clearing Corporation of India (MCCIL).

Liquidity Plan and Market Position

Liquidity remains a key challenge for a relatively new exchange. To address this, MSE has planned a liquidity enhancement scheme, which includes appointing market makers to support trading in approximately 130 stocks.

The exchange has also strengthened its financial position by raising ₹1,240 crore in two tranches in December 2024 and August 2025. Major brokerage firms such as Groww and Zerodha participated in the fundraising.

However, analysts note that breaking the long-standing NSE–BSE duopoly will not be easy. Data cited by CNBC-Awaaz shows:

• Cash segment:
  • NSE: ~90–92% market share
  • BSE: ~8–10%
    
• Stock F&O:
  • NSE: ~95%
  • BSE: ~5%
    
• Index F&O:
  • NSE: ~80%
  • BSE: ~20%

Key Takeaway for Market Participants

The Union Budget often triggers sharp movements across equities, derivatives, bonds, and sector-specific stocks. Keeping exchanges open on Budget Day allows market participants to react to policy announcements in real time rather than waiting for the next trading session.

With all major exchanges open on February 01, traders and investors should be prepared for heightened volatility on Budget Day. Knowing market timings and operational status in advance helps avoid confusion and ensures timely decision-making during one of the most important sessions of the year.

Source: https://www.livemint.com

Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks; read all the related documents carefully before investing.