The Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSEI) will remain open for trading on Sunday, February 1, 2026, the day of the Union Budget 2026 presentation. This move allows market participants to react to budget announcements without delay. The decision places MSEI in line with BSE and NSE, which have also confirmed live trading on the same day.
Budget days often bring sharp market movements. Policy changes, tax decisions, and spending plans usually affect stock prices within minutes. As Budget 2026 falls on a Sunday, exchanges decided to keep markets open to support real-time price discovery and smooth trading activity.
In a circular issued on January 19, MSEI confirmed that trading on February 1 will follow standard market timings. The pre-opening session will run from 9:00 AM to 9:08 AM. Normal market trading will begin at 9:15 AM and continue until 3:30 PM. The exchange will also keep the equity derivatives segment open throughout the session.
The trading schedule is similar to that of BSE and NSE. This alignment helps traders manage positions across exchanges without confusion. The familiar timing also supports better participation and liquidity during the special live trading session.
MSEI is preparing for an active phase ahead of the budget. Reports indicate that the exchange will restart regular live trading from January 27. Nearly 130 stocks will be available for trading in the initial phase. Market makers will support liquidity during this period. Clearing and settlement operations will continue through Metropolitan Clearing Corporation of India (MCCIL), the exchange’s subsidiary.
The exchange has strengthened its financial position in recent years. MSEI raised Rs. 1,240 crore in two funding rounds held in December 2024 and August 2025. Several well-known broking firms participated in these rounds. These include Groww’s parent company Billionbrains Garage Ventures, Rainmatter Investments, Securocorp Securities, and Share India Securities.
The Union Budget 2026 session in Parliament will begin on January 28. The budget presentation on February 1 will mark the ninth consecutive budget speech by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Expectations remain high around fiscal policy, infrastructure spending, and economic growth plans.
Keeping markets open on Budget Day helps reduce uncertainty. It allows investors to act immediately instead of waiting for the next working day. This approach can limit sudden gaps and sharp corrections when markets reopen after a holiday.
With MSEI open on Budget Day, along with BSE and NSE, India’s stock markets will stay fully active during one of the most important financial events of the year. The decision reflects a strong focus on transparency, access, and timely market response during Budget 2026.
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