Help CenterWhat Counts as a Trading Day in Futures?
In futures trading, a trading day is not the same as a calendar day. Instead, it follows the CME Group Globex session, which begins in the evening of one day and continues into the next. Understanding this distinction is crucial for managing positions, risk, and account evaluations.
Futures Trading Day Schedule (EST)
| Trading Day | Starts | Ends |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Sunday 6:00 PM | Monday 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | Monday 6:00 PM | Tuesday 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Tuesday 6:00 PM | Wednesday 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | Wednesday 6:00 PM | Thursday 5:00 PM |
| Friday | Thursday 6:00 PM | Friday 5:00 PM |
Weekend Break:
Trading closes Friday at 5:00 PM EST and resumes Sunday at 6:00 PM EST.
Example
If today is Sunday, October 6th:
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The Monday trading session begins at 6:00 PM EST on Sunday.
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Trading continues until 5:00 PM EST on Monday.
Even though trading spans two calendar days (Sunday and Monday), it is considered one trading day: Monday.
Why This Matters
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Daily loss limits are applied per trading day, not per calendar day.
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Reset and evaluation logic for prop firm accounts is based on these trading sessions.
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Trading near the session close (5:00 PM EST) requires caution, as the market temporarily closes and reopens at 6:00 PM EST.
Important Notice
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All positions must be closed by 4:45 PM EST.
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This rule protects against increased volatility, lower liquidity, and potential margin calls during the 4:45–5:00 PM EST maintenance window.
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Positions or orders left open after 4:45 PM EST may be liquidated.
