US500 Best Trading Sessions — Hours & Volatility (GMT)
US500 moves most during: New York cash session 13:30–20:00 GMT. Session scores below reflect relative activity (0–5) based on FOREX.com Academy and BabyPips session data.
US500 Session Volatility
Hours are standard GMT (non-DST). London/NY hours shift +1 hour during DST. Always confirm your broker's server time.
Best Time to Trade US500
New York cash session 13:30–20:00 GMT
- The London + New York overlap (12:00–16:00 GMT) is the most liquid window for most instruments.
- Session opens and key data releases produce the widest intraday moves.
- Trading outside active sessions means wider spreads and thinner liquidity.
US500 Full Session Guide
The broadest US benchmark — FOMC and NFP days produce the cleanest directional runs; tightest index spread on offer.
Daily range context: ~65 points (≈0.85%) — medium volatility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which session is best for trading US500?
New York cash session 13:30–20:00 GMT.
What time does the London session open?
London opens at 07:00 GMT (08:00 BST) and runs to 16:00 GMT. It carries roughly 43% of all FX turnover — the highest of any session.
Does US500 move during the Tokyo session?
US500 scores only 2/5 in Tokyo — most of its movement comes outside Asian hours.
What is the best session overlap for US500?
The London + New York overlap (12:00–16:00 GMT) offers the deepest liquidity; for Asia-linked pairs the Tokyo + London overlap (07:00–09:00 GMT) is also active.
Can I trade US500 outside its best sessions?
Yes, but expect wider spreads and thinner liquidity. US500 trading hours: Sunday 22:00 – Friday 21:00 GMT (cash 13:30–20:00 GMT).
Data compiled 22 August 2026 from IC Markets product specification sheets, Myfxbook live spread/swap/volatility feeds and public education sources (FOREX.com Academy, BabyPips, FXStreet). Spreads, swaps and daily ranges change continuously — values above are representative, not quotes, and vary by broker. Verify everything in your platform's contract specification window. Educational content only — not financial advice. See our Terms.
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