The Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) of Taiwan has indicated that extending the hours of stock market trading is currently not a top priority, with no set schedule for implementing such changes. FSC Chairman Peng Jin-lung emphasized that making adjustments to the existing trading timetable, which runs from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., would necessitate considerable agreement from both the public and industry stakeholders before any steps could be taken.
These statements come amid ongoing considerations by the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE), which is exploring the potential benefits of extending trading hours to 3:30 p.m. This adjustment aims to better synchronize with international markets, potentially boosting market activity. However, the process is still in the consultation phase, with discussions continuing with brokerage firms to assess the feasibility and impact of such a change.
In the interim, the Taiwan Stock Exchange has unveiled plans to modify its odd-lot trading system. Starting at the end of this year, odd-lot trading will commence earlier, at 9:00 a.m. instead of the previous 9:10 a.m. Furthermore, in an effort to enhance trading efficiency and market liquidity, the exchange will shorten the order matching interval for odd-lot trades from five seconds to one second beginning next year.
While the possibility of extended trading hours remains under examination, these incremental changes reflect TWSE’s commitment to improving the operational aspects of the market. By streamlining odd-lot trading, the exchange aims to provide a more dynamic and efficient environment for investors, even as broader discussions about aligning with global market hours continue.