The Indian stock market will be shut on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in observance of Maharashtra Day, marking a key state-level public holiday. This closure applies to both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), with no trading or settlement activities scheduled across equity, derivatives, or securities lending and borrowing (SLB) segments.

This annual holiday is observed to commemorate the formation of the state of Maharashtra from the erstwhile Bombay State in 1960, a historic move that also created Gujarat on the same day.

Why the Market Is Closed

Maharashtra Day, also known as Maharashtra Foundation Day, holds significant cultural and historical importance for the state. It is a public holiday, and as a result:

• Banks,

• Government offices,

• Schools and colleges, and

• Other public institutions

remain shut. In addition, this day coincides with International Labour Day, further marking its importance on the national calendar.

MCX Trading Hours Adjusted

The Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) will also observe a trading holiday in the morning session, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on May 1. However, the exchange has clarified that evening trading will take place as usual, starting from 5:00 pm and continuing until 11:55 pm.

This arrangement provides some flexibility to commodity traders who may want to continue trading in the latter half of the day.

Resumption of Trading

Regular trading activity will resume on Friday, May 2, across all segments and exchanges. This will include cash equities, derivatives, and commodity markets, restoring normalcy for participants.

For investors and traders, it's a temporary halt in operations, and they are advised to plan trades and settlements accordingly in light of the market shutdown.

Market Holidays in May and Beyond

Unlike April 2025, which witnessed three market holidays, May has only one stock market holiday. However, with nine weekend closures (Saturdays and Sundays), the month still sees several non-trading days.

Here are some of the upcoming market holidays in 2025:

• August 15 – Independence Day

• August 27 – Ganesh Chaturthi

• October 2 – Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra

• October 21 – Diwali and Laxmi Pujan

• October 22 – Diwali Balipratipada

• November 5 – Prakash Gurpurb

• December 25 – Christmas

It’s important to note that exchange-specific holidays may vary based on state observances or specific events.

What Traders and Investors Should Do

With the market holiday on May 1, traders and investors are advised to:

• Settle outstanding positions and margins before market closure

• Stay updated with global market movements that may impact opening trends on May 2

• Use the break to analyse portfolio performance and plan next trades

• Watch for MCX evening session for commodity-based movements

Significance of Maharashtra Day

Maharashtra Day celebrates the reorganisation of states in India in 1960, a landmark event that defined linguistic and administrative boundaries. Maharashtra was formed with Mumbai as its capital, and since then, the day has been officially recognised as a state holiday.

In Mumbai, the financial hub of the country, this day holds significance not only for its cultural pride but also because it impacts financial market operations.

Summary

To summarise:

May 1, 2025, is a non-trading day for NSE, BSE, and the morning session of MCX

Markets will reopen on May 2, 2025, with regular trading hours

Investors should monitor portfolios, stay informed about global cues, and plan accordingly

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