Memorial Day in the United States, observed on the last Monday in May, is a federal holiday honoring military personnel who died in service. It also brings notable schedule changes for financial markets and mail services. Here’s what to expect.
Is the stock market closed on Memorial Day?
– Yes. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq are closed on Memorial Day. There is no regular or after-hours trading for U.S. stocks and most equity options.
– U.S. bond markets also close for the holiday, following SIFMA’s holiday schedule.
– Brokerage platforms typically remain accessible for account management, but order execution will resume on the next trading day.
– Settlement timing: U.S. equities use T+1 settlement. Trades executed on the business day before the long weekend settle on the next market day after the holiday.
– Other markets: Some global exchanges may remain open, and certain electronic futures and FX venues operate on modified holiday hours. Cryptocurrency trading continues 24/7.
Does the post office deliver mail?
– No. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) observes federal holidays. On Memorial Day, post offices are closed and there is no regular residential or business mail delivery or pickup, and no retail counter service.
– Limited exception: USPS Priority Mail Express typically offers year‑round delivery, including holidays, in many locations. Check availability for your specific address.
– PO Box access: Many lobbies remain accessible for self-service, but no new mail is sorted or delivered until the next business day.
Package carriers at a glance
– UPS: No regular pickup or delivery on Memorial Day. UPS Store locations may be closed or on reduced hours. UPS Express Critical (urgent, same-day) is available.
– FedEx: Most services (including Express and Ground/Home Delivery) do not operate on Memorial Day. FedEx Custom Critical is available; FedEx Office locations may have limited holiday hours.
Planning tips
– Investors: Place time‑sensitive trades before the holiday and account for T+1 settlement and any cash/transfer delays due to the bank holiday.
– Shippers: Mail or ship early if you need delivery before or during the holiday. Verify Priority Mail Express eligibility and check local UPS/FedEx hours.
– Businesses: Expect delays in bank processing, ACH transfers, and check deposits; normal processing resumes the next business day.
Bottom line
– The U.S. stock and bond markets are closed on Memorial Day.
– USPS does not deliver regular mail or operate retail counters, with only limited Priority Mail Express service available.
– Most UPS and FedEx services pause for the day, aside from their critical/urgent offerings.
