Understand the Changes in the Operating Hours of the Brazil Stock Exchange in 2024

For those investing in B3, understanding the operational calendar is essential to avoid missing opportunities. The operating hours of the Brazil stock exchange undergo adjustments throughout 2024, mainly due to synchronization with international markets and the national holiday calendar.

History and Restructuring of B3’s Operations

Since 1890, when it operated as a Free Stock Exchange, the institution has undergone several transformations. The most significant change occurred in 2017, when the merger between São Paulo Stock, Commodities, and Futures Exchange (BM&FBOVESPA) and the Central Depository and Clearinghouse for Securities (CETIP) created the current B3. This process consolidated the stock exchange’s operating hours into a single standard, enabling trading of securities and shares from over 400 Brazilian companies.

How the Current Operating Hours Work

Since 2022, the Brazil stock exchange’s operating hours follow a standardized schedule. On business days, trading occurs between 10:00 and 17:00 (Brasília time). Alongside the official trading session, there are other relevant periods:

Pre-market: Occurs 15 minutes before the start of operations (9:45 to 10:00), when the exchange records orders issued after the previous session’s close.

After Market: Operates between 17:30 and 18:00, allowing trading of certain assets after standard business hours. This session is influenced by American daylight saving time and may not occur every day of the year, operating with specific restrictions according to B3 regulations.

Important Changes to the Stock Exchange’s Operating Hours in 2024

A significant change affected the exchange’s operation: until March 10, 2024, due to American daylight saving time, B3 closed at 18:00. Starting March 11, this time was adjusted to 17:00, and the after market resumed operating between 17:30 and 18:00 (Brasília time).

This change reflects the direct influence that the American calendar exerts on operations in Brazil, considering the large flow of foreign investors trading daily on the exchange.

National Holidays That Disrupt B3 Activities in 2024

The Brazilian holiday calendar directly impacts the stock exchange’s operation. The table below lists the closure periods:

*On Ash Wednesday (February 14), there will be a reduced session from 13:00 to 17:55, with pre-opening from 12:45 to 13:00. Derivatives and commodities will open at 13:00 (pre-opening 12:55-13:00).

**On December 31, B3 does not open due to internal procedures within banking institutions.

Local holidays, such as São Paulo Day, do not interfere with the exchange’s operation, as activities are centrally coordinated.

Influence of the International Calendar on the Brazil Stock Exchange Operating Hours

International holidays, in isolation, do not affect the Brazilian stock exchange’s operating hours. However, the interconnection between the American and Brazilian markets creates significant interdependencies. Global investment funds, exchange rate fluctuations, and movements in commodities like oil and metals are factors that create operational synchronization between the exchanges.

This integration requires investors to monitor both the national calendar and American time changes, especially during transition periods between daylight saving time and standard time. The goal is to ensure active trading opportunities and maintain foreign capital confidence in the Brazilian market.

Strategic Planning: The Importance of Knowing the Stock Exchange’s Operating Hours

Understanding the variations in the stock exchange’s operating hours is crucial to avoid missing opportunities and to ensure order execution within deadlines. It is recommended to regularly consult B3’s official channels to confirm any unexpected changes and stay updated on modifications that could impact your investment strategy.