The countdown to Budget 2026 has started. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present it on February 1. Meanwhile, many investors and traders are confused about whether the stock market will be open or closed on Budget day, February 1. Let us clear this confusion today.
Will the stock market remain open?
Both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will remain open on the day of the budget presentation, and trading will continue as per normal timings. Although the market is usually closed on Sundays, it will remain open on Budget day.
Why was this decision taken?
This decision was taken so that investors can keep an eye on the market movements during the presentation of the budget, because the budget impacts businesses, investors and market trends. Investors will be able to see all budget updates in real-time before taking any investment decision or withdrawing money from the market. Major changes in taxes, government spending or policies can cause major market fluctuations. The decision to keep the market open was taken so that traders could react quickly to any changes.
What are market hours?
BSE and NSE have said that trading will take place from 9:15 am to 3:30 pm. Both the exchanges said all indices, including sectoral benchmarks, will be calculated as normal, reflecting live market activity during the budget presentation. Exchanges have called it ‘Special Trading Day’. Analysts said keeping the markets open on Sunday ensures that investor reactions are in line with the budget announcements and that trading runs smoothly throughout the day.
When will the budget session take place?
The Union Budget will be presented during the budget session of Parliament, which will run from January 28 to April 2. The first phase will end on February 13, and after a short break, the second phase will start on March 9. President Draupadi Murmu has approved the session. It is expected that during this period the Members of Parliament will discuss taxes, government expenditure and other schemes. These discussions will include the proposals and their impact on businesses and citizens. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the budget on 1 February. This will be his ninth consecutive annual budget.
