The London Stock Exchange is exploring the introduction of 24-hour trading as part of a major effort to revitalise interest in UK equities and attract a new generation of retail investors.
The move, currently under discussion by London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), would align the capital's trading hours more closely with global markets and respond to growing demand for round-the-clock access to financial assets—particularly from younger, tech-savvy investors who are used to the non-stop nature of cryptocurrency trading.
At present, the London Stock Exchange operates from 8am to 4.30pm. Under the proposals being considered, trading could be extended significantly or even made continuous, bringing the UK in line with developments in the United States, where major exchanges including Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange have filed plans to launch 24-hour operations.
A spokesperson for LSEG confirmed that a review of trading hours was underway, with early-stage consultations taking place across the financial community. "We are examining all aspects, including market demand, technology requirements, and the impact on liquidity," the spokesperson said.
The LSE last reviewed its trading hours in 2020, when a proposal to shorten the day to improve work-life balance and increase liquidity was ultimately shelved.
This latest review appears to be moving in the opposite direction, driven by rapid changes in investor behaviour and a desire to modernise Britain’s capital markets.
FTSE 100
The UK's flagship share index, the FTSE 100, was xxxxxxx shortly after opening this morning.
Brent crude oil futures were up 0.02% at $67.38 a barrel.
Companies reporting today
- MONY Group - Half Year Results
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies - Half Year Results
- Verizon - Q2 Results