US Stock Exchange Holidays 2017: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a trader or investor looking to stay on top of the stock market? Understanding the US stock exchange holidays is crucial for planning your trading and investment strategies. In this article, we will explore the key holidays observed by the major stock exchanges in the United States in 2017. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the market during these periods.

What are US Stock Exchange Holidays?

US stock exchange holidays refer to the days when the major stock exchanges, such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the NASDAQ, are closed. These holidays are typically observed to honor national holidays and events, and they can impact trading activities, market volatility, and investment decisions.

2017 US Stock Exchange Holidays: A Detailed List

Here is a comprehensive list of the major US stock exchange holidays observed in 2017:

1. New Year's Day (January 2, 2017): Celebrating the beginning of the year, the stock exchanges were closed on this day.
2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 16, 2017): To honor the civil rights leader, the exchanges were closed on this federal holiday.
3. Washington's Birthday (February 20, 2017): Also known as President's Day, the stock exchanges were closed on this day.
4. Good Friday (April 14, 2017): Observing the Christian holiday, the exchanges were closed on this day.
5. Memorial Day (May 29, 2017): In memory of those who died in military service, the exchanges were closed on this day.
6. Independence Day (July 4, 2017): Celebrating the nation's independence, the exchanges were closed on this day.
7. Labor Day (September 4, 2017): Recognizing the contributions of workers, the exchanges were closed on this day.
8. Columbus Day (October 9, 2017): Commemorating the explorer Christopher Columbus, the exchanges were closed on this day.
9. Veterans Day (November 10, 2017): Honoring military veterans, the exchanges were closed on this day.
10. Thanksgiving Day (November 23, 2017): Celebrating the harvest and expressing gratitude, the exchanges were closed on this day.
11. Christmas Day (December 25, 2017): Observing the Christian holiday, the exchanges were closed on this day.

Impact of Stock Exchange Holidays on Trading Activities

Understanding the impact of stock exchange holidays is essential for traders and investors. During these periods, the market may experience volatility due to the absence of trading activity. Additionally, the lack of liquidity can affect the prices of stocks and other securities.

Case Study: Impact of Christmas Day on the Stock Market

In 2017, the stock market experienced a significant decline on the day before Christmas. This decline was attributed to the anticipation of the holiday season and the subsequent lack of trading activity. As a result, traders and investors were unable to react quickly to market changes, leading to increased volatility.

Conclusion

Understanding the US stock exchange holidays in 2017 is crucial for traders and investors. By being aware of these holidays, you can plan your trading and investment strategies accordingly. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a beginner, knowing the key holidays observed by the major stock exchanges can help you navigate the market more effectively.