Stock Markets to Close Early on Black Friday Amid Strong Holiday Sales Forecast
U.S. equity markets will operate on abbreviated schedules this Black Friday, with the NYSE and Nasdaq closing at 1 p.m. EST after a 9:30 a.m. opening. Fixed-income markets maintain slightly extended hours, concluding trading at 2 p.m.
Adobe Analytics projects a robust 5.3% year-over-year increase in online holiday sales, anticipating $253.4 billion in digital transactions during the November-December period. The National Retail Federation echoes this optimism, forecasting 3.7-4.2% growth across all retail channels.
Historical patterns suggest seasonal strength for equities, with the S&P 500 typically advancing during Black Friday week. The shortened session occurs against a backdrop of heightened consumer activity, as major shipping carriers and financial institutions maintain normal operating hours.
