The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has announced an extension of trading hours for equity derivatives, including futures and options (F&O), by 10 minutes, with effect from August 3, 2026. Under the revised
schedule, trading in equity derivatives will now conclude at 3:40 pm instead of the current 3:30 pm.
In a circular issued to trading members, the exchange said the changes are aimed at aligning derivatives market operations with the new closing auction framework being introduced in the cash segment.
What Changes for Equity Derivatives Traders?
As per the revised schedule, the normal market closing time for the equity derivatives segment will be extended by five minutes.
Under the new timings:
| Session | Timings | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-open session open time | 09:00 hrs | No change |
| Pre-open session close time | 09:08 hrs | No change |
| Normal market open time | 09:15 hrs | No change |
| Normal market close time | 15:40 hrs | Extended from 15:30 hrs |
| Trade modification end time | 16:15 hrs | No change |
The exchange clarified that the normal market closure will now take place at 3:40 pm, while other session timings will remain unchanged.
Why Has NSE Changed the Timings?
The modification follows NSE’s March 18, 2026, circular introducing the Closing Auction Session in the equity cash segment. The closing auction mechanism is designed to facilitate better price discovery for securities at market close and align Indian market practices with global standards.
To accommodate the auction process and ensure smooth settlement and price dissemination, corresponding changes are being made in the derivatives segment.
