Columbus Day 2025: Is the US Stock Market Closed on October 13?

Every year, questions swirl around Columbus Day 2025, especially among investors: Is the stock market open Columbus Day? Is Columbus Day a federal holiday? Well, in the U.S. is a national holiday, meaning the federal government and many institutional services close. However, US stock markets remain functional on this holiday as US exchanges have their own calendar. 

Some market segments, however, remain shut on Columbus Day. This blog will gives you a definitive and detailed guide about everything so you can plan your trading day without any confusion on October 13.

What is Columbus Day?

Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It was first celebrated as a local holiday in the 18th century and later recognized nationally in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In modern America, the second Monday of October is set aside for Columbus Day celebrations, community events, and cultural observances. 

Some states and cities have rebranded it as Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native American heritage and resilience. Despite differing names and regional observances, Columbus Day 2025 remains a day marked by parades, civic discussions, and public awareness campaigns across the country.

Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday?

Yes, Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States. That means it is recognized by the U.S. federal government, and all federal offices, courts, and agencies observe it. This includes the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), which suspends regular mail delivery, and the Federal Reserve, which halts payment services and bank settlements on this day.

However, being a federal holiday doesn’t mean every business closes. Private organizations, corporations, and stock exchanges determine their own operating calendars. That’s why Columbus Day 2025 can be a day off for some Americans but a normal business day for others.

Is the Stock Market Open on Columbus Day?

Yes, the U.S. stock market (NYSE, Nasdaq) remains open on Columbus Day 2025. The US stock exchanges do not recognize Columbus Day as one of their closure days. If you are one of those who are wondering, “Is the stock market open tomorrow?” and tomorrow happens to be October 14, 2025, the answer is yes. That said, while stocks trade normally, other financial segments don’t follow suit.

US Stock Market Timings:

The NYSE and NASDAQ operate on the Eastern Time Zone (ET). However, ET has two variations that affect US market timings in India:

1. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT):
   • Observed: Typically from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November (Spring/Summer).
   • Offset: UTC-4 (4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time).
   • Impact on IST: EDT is 9.5 hours behind IST. So, 9:30 AM EDT is 7:00 PM IST.
2. Eastern Standard Time (EST):
   • Observed: Typically from the first Sunday in November to the second Sunday in March (Autumn/Winter).
   • Offset: UTC-5 (5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time).
   • Impact on IST: EST is 10.5 hours behind IST. So, 9:30 AM EST is 8:00 PM IST.

Know all about US Market Timings for people investing in US Stocks in India.

Are Bond Markets Open on Columbus Day?

Here's a subtle but important distinction: bond markets (Treasuries, muni, corporate bonds) remain closed on Columbus Day. In contrast to equities, bond trading halts as per the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) holiday recommendations. So if you're trading bond ETFs or relying on fixed-income signals, expect liquidity gaps or wider spreads on October 13. That’s why some investors prefer to delay bond-sensitive trades until after the holiday.

Is Columbus Day a Bank Holiday?

Because Columbus Day is a federal holiday, banks generally follow the Federal Reserve’s schedule and remain closed. So, for anyone wondering if the banks are closed today on Columbus Day, the answer is yes. While digital banking (apps, web) often remains functional, branch operations are suspended. 

What to Watch for Investors on Columbus Day 2025?

• Wider spreads & lower liquidity: Because bond markets close and many institutional desks are offline, equities may display thinner order books and slightly widened bid-ask spreads.
• ETF mechanics & NAV mismatches: Bond ETFs may trade, but their underlying bond holdings won’t change that day. That increases the chance of discounts or premiums to NAV intraday.
• Settlement and operations delays: Fed wires and bank settlement systems are offline, so cash movements or transfers may settle on the next business day.
• Derivative & commodity trading: Many futures/commodities platforms run electronic hours, but with some limitations or special holiday clearing rules. Always inspect product bulletins.
• News / corporate events: Government offices and many public agencies are closed, so press releases or filings may be postponed.

Federal Holidays 2025 &US Market Holidays Calendar

The stock market holiday calendar in 2025 includes Thanksgiving, and Christmas. It does not include Columbus Day. However, the bond market holiday list does include Columbus Day and Veterans Day (Nov 11) as extra closures beyond the standard list. This divergence is why a day like Columbus Day can feel partially “alive” in equities but muted elsewhere.

Investors can expect normal activity on the NYSE and Nasdaq. If you are planning trades or transfers around October 13, factor in limited liquidity in fixed-income instruments and potential delays in settlements or fund movements due to bank closures. 

Disclaimer:

The content is meant for education and general information purposes only. Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. The securities quoted are exemplary and are not a recommendation. This in no way is to be construed as financial advice or a recommendation to invest in any specific stock or financial instrument. The figures mentioned in this article are indicative and for general informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify the exact numbers and financial data from official sources such as company filings, earnings reports, and financial news platforms. The Company strongly encourages its users/viewers to conduct their own research, and consult with a registered financial advisor before making any investment decisions. All disputes in relation to the content would not have access to an exchange investor redressal forum or arbitration mechanism. Registered office address: Office No. 507, 5th Floor, Pragya II, Block 15-C1, Zone-1, Road No. 11, Processing Area, GIFT SEZ, GIFT City, Gandhinagar – 382355. IFSCA Broker-Dealer Registration No. IFSC/BD/2023-24/0016, IFSCA DP Reg No: IFSC/DP/2023-24/010