XAUUSD Best Trading Sessions — Hours & Volatility (GMT)
XAUUSD moves most during: London + New York (13:30–22:00 GMT COMEX); LBMA fixings 10:30/15:00 GMT. Session scores below reflect relative activity (0–5) based on FOREX.com Academy and BabyPips session data.
XAUUSD 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 XAUUSD
London + New York (13:30–22:00 GMT COMEX); LBMA fixings 10:30/15:00 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.
XAUUSD Full Session Guide
Biggest swings land on US inflation/data releases; gold EAs must size for $50–100 daily ranges and respect rollover spread widening.
Daily range context: ~$95 ($90–110) — very high volatility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which session is best for trading XAUUSD?
London + New York (13:30–22:00 GMT COMEX); LBMA fixings 10:30/15:00 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 XAUUSD move during the Tokyo session?
Yes — XAUUSD scores 3/5 for Tokyo-session activity, so Asian hours matter for this pair.
What is the best session overlap for XAUUSD?
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 XAUUSD outside its best sessions?
Yes, but expect wider spreads and thinner liquidity. XAUUSD trading hours: 23/5, Sunday 22:00 – Friday 21:00 GMT (1-hour daily break).
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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