Pre-Market Trading

Trading that occurs before the regular market opens, typically 4 AM - 9:30 AM ET.

What Is Pre-Market Trading?

Pre-market trading takes place from 4:00 AM to 9:30 AM Eastern Time, before the regular market opens. Companies that report earnings before the open (BMO — Before Market Open) see their stocks react during this session.

Pre-Market and Earnings

About 40% of S&P 500 companies report earnings before market open. The pre-market session is where the initial reaction plays out. By the time the regular market opens at 9:30 AM, the stock price often reflects the new information — though the first 30 minutes of regular trading can still see significant volatility.

Reading Pre-Market Signals

Pre-market volume and price direction can signal what to expect during the regular session. High pre-market volume confirms strong conviction. But be cautious — pre-market moves on low volume can be misleading and often reverse at the open.