
- Cboe filed with the SEC to enable 24×5 trading on EDGX.
- The proposal targets a December 2026 launch timeline.
- Extended trading could reshape global access to US equities.
A new era of extended market access
Cboe is taking a bold step toward reshaping how US equities are traded. The exchange operator has filed a proposal with the SEC to introduce near round-the-clock trading on its EDGX platform. If approved, the plan would allow trading for 24 hours a day, five days a week, significantly extending current market hours.
This move reflects growing demand from global investors who want more flexible access to US stocks. Today, most trading activity is concentrated within standard market hours, with limited pre-market and after-hours sessions. The proposed system would dramatically expand that window, making it easier for traders across different time zones to participate.
Why 24×5 trading could change the game
The push for Cboe 24×5 trading comes as markets become increasingly global and technology-driven. Investors in Asia and Europe often face inconvenient hours when trading US equities. By enabling nearly continuous access, Cboe aims to remove these barriers and create a more inclusive trading environment.
There’s also a growing influence from crypto markets, which operate 24/7. Many investors have become accustomed to always-on trading, and this expectation is slowly spilling into traditional finance. With this proposal, Cboe appears to be bridging the gap between crypto-style accessibility and traditional equity markets.
However, extended hours also bring challenges. Liquidity during off-peak times may be lower, and price volatility could increase. Regulators will likely examine these risks closely before giving approval.
LATEST: Cboe files a proposal with the SEC to launch near 24×5 US equities trading on its EDGX exchange, targeting a December 2026 launch. pic.twitter.com/NZLCnaMts5
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) March 17, 2026
December 2026 timeline and what comes next
Cboe is targeting a December 2026 launch for its 24×5 trading model, but the proposal still needs approval from the SEC. The review process will involve assessing market stability, investor protection, and operational readiness.
If approved, this could mark a major turning point for US equities. Continuous trading would not only change how markets function but also how investors plan their strategies. It may also push other exchanges to follow suit, accelerating a broader shift toward extended trading hours.
For now, all eyes are on the SEC’s decision. The outcome could define the next phase of evolution in traditional financial markets.
