Wall Street trades on Columbus Day while bond markets stay shut

Key points

• The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will operate on their regular schedule on October 12.
• The US bond market is closed for Columbus Day, according to the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association.
• Columbus Day has been a federal holiday since 1892 but is not a designated closure day for equity exchanges.
• The next federal holiday where the stock market will close is Thanksgiving on November 26.
• Veterans Day on November 11 is a federal holiday but will not result in a stock market closure.

Background

This follows the Labor Day closure on September 7, 2026. Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday in October. While it is a federal holiday, it is not one of the specific days the NYSE and Nasdaq choose to close. Indigenous Peoples' Day, which coincides with Columbus Day, is recognized in some states and cities but is not a federal holiday.

How outlets are covering it

USA TODAY and The Providence Journal agree that equity markets will open normally on October 12. USA TODAY notes that the bond market will be closed, citing the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association. The Providence Journal confirms that the NYSE and Nasdaq will open at 9:30 a.m. and highlights that Veterans Day will also not result in a market closure. Seeking Alpha provides similar information, confirming that markets are open on Columbus Day. All sources agree on the next scheduled closure being Thanksgiving on November 26.

Why it matters

Investors and traders need to know that equity markets will be open on Columbus Day, allowing them to trade normally. However, the closure of the bond market may affect fixed-income investors. Understanding the holiday schedule helps in planning trades and managing portfolios.

What to watch

The stock market will remain open until Thanksgiving on November 26. Veterans Day on November 11 will not result in a closure. Investors should monitor market conditions and adjust their strategies accordingly.