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Forex Trading Time Sessions
The forex market operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, thanks to a global network of trading sessions. These sessions overlap and rotate across major financial centres, creating unique opportunities for traders depending on the time of day and currency pair traded.
Key Takeaways
- Forex is a decentralised market open 24 hours a day, from Monday to Friday.
- There are four major trading sessions: Sydney, Tokyo, London, and New York.
- Session overlaps lead to higher trading volumes and volatility.
- Different currency pairs are most active during specific sessions.
- Traders often schedule strategies based on these session patterns.
Major Forex Trading Sessions
| Session | Opening Time (GMT) | Closing Time (GMT) |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 10:00 PM | 7:00 AM |
| Tokyo (Asia) | 12:00 AM | 9:00 AM |
| London (Europe) | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| New York (US) | 1:00 PM | 10:00 PM |
Most Volatile Overlaps
1. London–New York Overlap (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM GMT)
- Highest liquidity
- Ideal for trading EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/CHF
2. Sydney–Tokyo Overlap (12:00 AM – 7:00 AM GMT)
- Good for AUD/JPY, AUD/USD, NZD/USD
3. London–Tokyo Overlap (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM GMT)
- Brief overlap, less volatile but still relevant for EUR/JPY, GBP/JPY
Optimal Pairs by Session
| Session | Best Currency Pairs |
|---|---|
| Sydney | AUD/USD, AUD/JPY, NZD/USD |
| Tokyo | USD/JPY, EUR/JPY, GBP/JPY |
| London | EUR/USD, GBP/USD, EUR/GBP |
| New York | USD/CAD, USD/CHF, GBP/USD |
A structured Forex Course will typically teach session-based trading strategies, including how to align volatility cycles with technical and fundamental analysis.
Real Case Study: Session-Based Scalping
A UK-based trader chooses to scalp during the London–New York overlap. They monitor EUR/USD on the 5-minute chart using volatility breakouts. Due to high liquidity, spreads are tight, and price reacts strongly to US economic releases. Their strategy includes trading only between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM GMT and closing all positions before the overlap ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the four main forex trading sessions?
Sydney, Tokyo, London, and New York.
When is the forex market most active?
During the London–New York overlap (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM GMT).
Which session is best for trading USD/JPY?
The Tokyo session (12:00 AM – 9:00 AM GMT) offers the most activity.
Is forex trading open on weekends?
No, forex closes on Friday at 10:00 PM GMT and reopens on Monday at 10:00 PM GMT.
What’s the best time to trade forex?
During session overlaps, especially the London–New York overlap, when volatility is highest.
