Introduction to Market Sessions
A beginner‑friendly guide to the global trading sessions and how they shape market behaviour.
A beginner‑friendly guide to the global trading sessions and how they shape market behaviour.
Financial markets operate 24 hours a day during the week, but activity is not evenly distributed. Instead, trading volume and volatility follow the opening and closing times of major financial centres around the world. These periods are known as market sessions.
The Asian session begins with Tokyo and includes markets such as Singapore and Hong Kong. It is typically characterized by moderate volatility and steady price movement.
The European session, led by London, is one of the most active periods of the trading day. Liquidity increases significantly, and price movements become more dynamic.
The US session overlaps with the European session, creating the most volatile period of the trading day. Major economic news releases often occur during this time.
Overlaps occur when two major sessions are open at the same time. These periods bring the highest liquidity and the strongest price movements.
Understanding market sessions helps traders choose the best times to trade, manage risk more effectively and align strategies with market conditions. Each session has its own rhythm, liquidity profile and volatility pattern.
Market sessions shape the flow of global trading activity. By understanding when liquidity and volatility peak, beginners can make smarter decisions about when to trade and what to expect from price behaviour.
Explore more beginner‑level lessons inside Quantisca Trading Academy.