US Stock Market 2017 Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide

The US stock market is a bustling hub of financial activity, but it's essential to understand when the markets are closed to plan your investments accordingly. In 2017, several holidays impacted the trading schedule, and this article will provide a comprehensive guide to those dates.

Understanding the Impact of Holidays on the Stock Market

When the stock market is closed, investors cannot buy or sell stocks, which can affect their portfolios significantly. Understanding the holiday schedule is crucial for making informed decisions and planning your investment strategy.

2017 US Stock Market Holiday Schedule

Here's a breakdown of the major holidays in 2017 and their impact on the stock market:

1. New Year's Day (January 2, 2017): The stock market typically closes on New Year's Day, and 2017 was no exception. Investors had to wait until January 3 to resume trading.

   
   

2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 16, 2017): This holiday commemorates the civil rights leader and is observed on the third Monday in January. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on January 17.

3. Washington's Birthday (February 20, 2017): Also known as President's Day, this holiday honors the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on February 21.

4. Good Friday (April 14, 2017): Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The stock market closed on this day, and trading resumed on April 17.

5. Memorial Day (May 29, 2017): Memorial Day honors military personnel who died in the line of duty. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on May 30.

6. Independence Day (July 4, 2017): Independence Day celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The stock market closed on this day, and trading resumed on July 5.

7. Labor Day (September 4, 2017): Labor Day honors the contributions of American workers. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on September 5.

8. Columbus Day (October 9, 2017): Columbus Day celebrates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on October 10.

9. Veterans Day (November 10, 2017): Veterans Day honors military veterans. The stock market was closed on this day, and trading resumed on November 13.

10. Thanksgiving Day (November 23, 2017): Thanksgiving is a day of giving thanks for the harvest and other blessings. The stock market closed on this day, and trading resumed on November 24.

11. Christmas Day (December 25, 2017): Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The stock market closed on this day, and trading resumed on December 26.

Case Studies: Impact of Holidays on Stock Market Performance

Several studies have shown that the stock market tends to perform better on days when the market is open compared to holidays. For example, a study by the American Association of Individual Investors found that the S&P 500 had an average return of 10.8% on trading days in 2017, while the return on non-trading days was only 1.2%.

Conclusion

Understanding the 2017 US stock market holiday schedule is crucial for investors to plan their investments effectively. By being aware of when the market is closed, investors can make informed decisions and avoid potential losses. While the stock market tends to perform better on trading days, holidays can still impact investment strategies and performance.

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