Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) has clarified that extending the stock market trading hours is not currently a priority, and there is no set timeline for any such change. According to FSC Chairman Peng Jin-lung, any decision to prolong trading hours beyond the present 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. schedule would necessitate widespread consensus from the public and industry stakeholders before being considered.
This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions by the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE), which is exploring the option of extending trading hours until 3:30 p.m. The TWSE aims to align more closely with international markets, believing that longer trading hours could enhance market activity. However, consultations with brokerage firms on this potential move are still underway.
In a related development, the TWSE has revealed plans to adjust its odd-lot trading schedule. Starting at the end of this year, odd-lot trades will commence at 9:00 a.m., moving up from the current start time of 9:10 a.m. Additionally, the exchange intends to reduce the order matching interval for odd-lot trades from five seconds to one second next year, a measure aimed at boosting trading efficiency and market liquidity.
These proposed adjustments reflect the TWSE’s ongoing efforts to improve market operations, although the prospect of extending overall trading hours remains uncertain. Stakeholder consultations continue as the exchange evaluates the potential benefits and challenges of aligning Taiwan’s trading hours more closely with global standards.
As the FSC and TWSE evaluate these potential changes, the focus remains on ensuring that any modifications to the trading schedule are well-informed and supported by a broad base of agreement from all involved parties.