Learn the best times to trade and why timing matters
One of the best things about Forex trading is that the market is open 24 hours a day, five days a week. But just because the market is always open doesn't mean it’s always active — or smart to trade.
In this guide, you’ll learn how Forex trading sessions work and how to time your trades for the best results.
🌍 Why Is Forex Open 24 Hours?
The Forex market follows the global flow of money across time zones — from Asia to Europe to North America.
Because different financial centers open and close at different times, Forex runs nonstop from Monday to Friday.
🕒 The 4 Major Forex Trading Sessions
Forex trading is divided into four main sessions based on global financial hubs:
1. Sydney Session
Opens: 10:00 PM GMT
Closes: 7:00 AM GMT
Good for: AUD, NZD pairs
Slower pace, smaller moves
2. Tokyo Session (Asian Session)
Opens: 12:00 AM GMT
Closes: 9:00 AM GMT
Good for: JPY pairs
Often sets the tone for the day
3. London Session (European Session)
Opens: 8:00 AM GMT
Closes: 5:00 PM GMT
Good for: EUR, GBP, USD pairs
One of the most active sessions
4. New York Session (U.S. Session)
Opens: 1:00 PM GMT
Closes: 10:00 PM GMT
Good for: USD, CAD, and major pairs
High volatility, especially during U.S. news releases
🔁 Overlapping Sessions = More Action
The most active times to trade are when two sessions overlap. That’s when the most volume and movement happen.
London + New York Overlap: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM GMT
The most traded and volatile time of day
Tokyo + London Overlap: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM GMT
Short window, less active than London/NY
⏰ Best Times to Trade (for Beginners)
Trade during session overlaps for more movement and better setups
Avoid times with low volume like late Sydney or post-New York close
Watch out for major news releases (especially in the New York session)
📌 Final Tips
Your local time zone matters, so check when sessions are active in your area
Don’t try to trade 24/5 — pick the sessions that match your schedule and focus there
Most beginners have success trading during the London or New York sessions
⏳ Forex is always moving — but smart traders know when to act.