Stock markets in India remain shut on Diwali for normal trading but conduct a one-hour special Muhurat trading session to mark the occasion of Diwali. The stock exchanges decide on the Muhurat trading window every year.
This year too, both National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will hold a Muhurat trading session on November 14, between 6:15 and 7:15 pm.
There will be an eight-minute pre-open Muhurat Session from 6:00 pm to 6:08 pm and a post-closing Muhurat Session between 7:25 pm and 7:35 pm.
The Block Deal window will be open from 5:45 to 6:00 pm. Call Auction will be from 6:20 pm to 7:05 pm. Post Closing will be from 7:25 to 7:35 pm.
According to Mint, commodity exchange MCX will also hold a special Muhurat trading session on Saturday. The special session will start from 6 pm to 6:14 pm while the trading session from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm, the exchange said.
This special session is meant to give a window to investors to make trades on the auspicious day of Diwali, which marks the onset of a new year according to the Hindu calendar, also known as the Samvat Vikrami calendar.
This is an age-long tradition unique to Indian share markets.
Many believe trading during this period gives investors a better chance of earning gains and attracting prosperity throughout the year.
BSE and NSE have been holding the special Muhurat trading sessions since 1957 and 1992 respectively. Traditionally, stockbrokers opened new settlement accounts for their clients on the day of Diwali.