Stock Market Open Today: Investor Guide for Union Budget 2026

01, February 2026. By -Kaushik

Today is Sunday, February 1, 2026, and in a rare historic move, the Indian Stock Market is OPEN.
​While markets are traditionally closed on weekends, the BSE and NSE are conducting a full live trading session today to coincide with the presentation of the Union Budget 2026. This marks only the second time in the history of independent India that the markets are operational on a Sunday.

Market Timings for Feb 1, 2026
​The exchanges are following standard weekday timings to allow real-time reaction to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget speech:
​Pre-Open Session: 9:00 AM – 9:08 AM
​Normal Trading Hours: 9:15 AM – 3:30 PM
​Budget Speech Start: 11:00 AM

What Should Investors Do Today?
​The Union Budget often triggers “knee-jerk” reactions. While the screens might flash red or green rapidly during the speech, here is a grounded strategy for different types of investors:
​1. Long-Term Investors: Stay Calm
​Historically, the “Budget Day” impact is often a short-term blip. Data shows that the market’s long-term trajectory is determined more by corporate earnings and global cues than a single-day policy announcement. If you own quality stocks, do not panic-sell based on temporary volatility.
​2. Focus on “Budget-Sensitive” Sectors
​Keep a close watch on sectors that are likely to receive major policy pushes:
​Infrastructure & Capex: With the government’s continued focus on “Viksit Bharat,” companies like L&T and PFC remain in focus.
​Defence: Look for announcements regarding indigenization. Stocks like HAL and Bharat Electronics (BEL) often react sharply to allocation news.
​Renewable Energy: Green hydrogen and solar energy incentives could benefit players like Tata Power.
​Rural Consumption: Any tax relief for the middle class or rural sops could boost FMCG giants like Hindustan Unilever.

​3. Avoid “Over-Leveraging”
​Budget sessions are notorious for high “India VIX” (Volatility Index). If you are an options trader, ensure you have strict stop-losses. The “whipsaw” movements (prices moving rapidly in both directions) can wipe out capital if you are over-leveraged.
​Key Themes to Watch in Budget 2026
​For your blog readers, highlight these three pillars that will dictate the market trend for the rest of February:
​Fiscal Deficit Targets: Is the government sticking to its path of fiscal consolidation?
​Capital Gains Tax: Any changes in STCG (Short Term Capital Gains) or LTCG (Long Term Capital Gains) will be the biggest market mover.
​Income Tax Slabs: Changes in the New Tax Regime could put more disposable income in the hands of consumers, sparking a rally in retail and auto stocks.

Disclaimer :

This blog does not provide financial, investment, or trading advice. All content is for educational and informational purposes only. Please consult a certified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The author will not be responsible for any financial losses incurred