Cboe Global Markets Expands Trading Hours Amid Record Volumes

Cboe Global Markets Expands Trading Hours Amid Record Volumes

Chicago, July 13, 2026 — Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE) has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to extend trading hours for select multi-listed single stock options, a move that aligns with the company’s strategic initiatives to enhance market accessibility and capitalize on increasing trading volumes.

SEC Approval for Extended Trading Hours

On May 28, 2026, Cboe announced that the SEC approved its proposal to offer extended trading hours for select multi-listed equity options. Starting July 13, 2026, Cboe Options Exchange (C1) will introduce pre-market sessions from 7:30 a.m. ET to 9:25 a.m. ET and post-market sessions from 4:00 p.m. ET to 5:00 p.m. ET. This initiative aims to provide investors with greater flexibility to manage their positions around market-moving events, such as earnings releases and economic data announcements.

To qualify for these extended sessions, equity options must meet specific criteria: an average daily volume of at least 150,000 contracts over the preceding six months, an underlying equity market capitalization of $50 billion or more, and an average daily trading volume of 10 million shares or higher. Cboe plans to update the list of eligible options semi-annually.

Record Trading Volumes and Analyst Confidence

Cboe’s expansion of trading hours comes amid record trading volumes. In the second quarter of 2026, the average daily volume for index options increased by 32% year-over-year, surpassing consensus estimates by 4%. Multiply-listed options saw a 24% year-over-year increase, exceeding expectations by 10%. Despite a slight decline in market share, these figures underscore robust growth in trading activity.

Reflecting this strong performance, Barclays reiterated its ‘Overweight’ rating on Cboe stock, maintaining a price target of $382.00. The firm highlighted the impressive second-quarter volumes as a key factor in its positive outlook.

Strategic Initiatives and Market Expansion

Beyond extending trading hours, Cboe has been actively pursuing initiatives to broaden market access. In March 2026, the company filed a proposal with the SEC to launch near 24×5 U.S. equities trading on its Cboe EDGX Equities Exchange, aiming for a December 2026 rollout. This plan involves making all listed National Market System (NMS) stocks available for trading from Sunday at 9:00 p.m. ET to Friday at 8:00 p.m. ET, with a daily one-hour operational pause from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday.

Additionally, Cboe has partnered with CNBC to deliver daily live market coverage from its Chicago trading floor. This collaboration, announced in March 2026, seeks to provide real-time analysis of market volatility and options activity, enhancing transparency and investor education.

Financial Performance and Stock Outlook

Cboe’s strategic initiatives and robust trading volumes have positively impacted its financial performance. In the third quarter of 2025, the company reported record net revenue of $605.5 million, a 14% increase year-over-year, and a 38% rise in diluted earnings per share to $2.85. These results reflect the company’s ability to capitalize on growing demand for trading and risk management solutions.

As of July 10, 2026, Cboe’s stock price stood at $268.07, with a slight decrease of 0.97% from the previous close. The stock’s performance reflects investor confidence in the company’s growth trajectory and strategic direction.

Conclusion

Cboe Global Markets’ approval to extend trading hours for select equity options marks a significant step in enhancing market accessibility and responsiveness to investor needs. Coupled with record trading volumes and strategic initiatives, the company is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the financial markets. Investors and market participants will be closely monitoring the implementation of these extended hours and their impact on trading dynamics and Cboe’s financial performance.

Note: The information provided is based on data available as of July 13, 2026. Investors should conduct their own research or consult financial advisors before making investment decisions.