Indian Stock Markets to Observe Holidays for Mahavir Jayanti and Good Friday
Indian stock markets are set for a holiday-shortened trading week, with closures scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, and Friday, April 3. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will suspend all trading activities on these days, impacting various market segments.
Market Closures Across Key Segments
Trading will be halted on both exchanges for equity, equity derivatives, currency derivatives, securities lending and borrowing (SLB), and other market-linked instruments. This means investors will have only three full trading sessions available on Dalal Street during the week.
The timing of the March 31 holiday is particularly significant, as it coincides with the end of the financial year 2025-26. This closure on the fiscal year's final day could influence year-end portfolio adjustments and financial reporting activities.
Commodity Exchanges Follow Different Schedules
Commodity traders will experience varied trading hours. On Mahavir Jayanti, the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) will operate only during the evening session from 5 pm to 11:30 pm, with the morning session (9 am to 5 pm) closed. However, on Good Friday, MCX will remain shut for both sessions, aligning with global market closures for the occasion.
The National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) will be completely closed on both holidays, with no trading in either session. These adjustments highlight the diverse operational protocols across India's financial markets.
Upcoming Market Holidays in 2026
With these two closures, several more market holidays are scheduled throughout 2026, totaling 16 for the year. Following Good Friday, the next market holiday will be Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14, followed by Maharashtra Day on May 1 and Bakri Id on May 28.
Investors and traders are advised to plan their strategies accordingly, considering the reduced trading days and potential liquidity impacts during these holiday periods.
