Kalshi trading will operate almost around the clock.
In a move that could shake up the prediction market industry, Kalshi, a leading operator in the field, has announced a transition to nearly 24/7 trading on its event futures contracts, effective from August 7, 2025. This decision comes after the company self-certified the move with the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
The change in trading hours aims to cater to a broader range of clients with diverse time zones and aligns with the tech-savvy lifestyle of younger retail traders, who are already active in cryptocurrency markets. The new trading hours mean that night owls will now be able to trade overnight, providing greater accessibility and convenience for users.
The potential benefits for Kalshi include attracting younger retail traders who prefer flexible and extended trading opportunities, increasing user engagement and volume, and offering a competitive advantage in prediction markets. By providing nearly 24/7 trading, Kalshi can differentiate itself from competitors who have shorter hours, making it more attractive to active retail users engaging in event-driven trading strategies that require quick reactions to news and data.
The extended availability can also boost liquidity and attract a broader user base, including retail traders who want to trade outside regular hours, potentially increasing Kalshi’s market share among younger demographics accustomed to 24/7 market access in crypto trading and other digital investments.
Moreover, Kalshi’s regulatory compliance combined with flexible trading hours offers a safer and more accessible environment for younger traders who might otherwise trade on less regulated crypto platforms but desire traditional market protections. This move can help Kalshi tap into the younger, digitally native retail trader segment and enhance its position as a leading regulated prediction market platform with modern trading conveniences.
However, Kalshi is currently facing a series of state-level legal battles due to its increasing footprint with sports event contracts, which critics argue amount to sports betting. Last Friday, Judge Adam Abelson of the Maryland District Court rejected Kalshi’s request for a temporary injunction. The ruling could set up a potential showdown between Kalshi and various states at the US Supreme Court.
Trading on Kalshi previously did not occur between 3 and 8 AM Eastern time. However, the new trading times exclude a two-hour window for maintenance early on Thursdays (3am - 5am ET). The announcement stated that Kalshi will be open 24/7 for trading, save for routine maintenance. It's important to note that Kalshi does not have regulatory approval to offer sports betting in the state.
This transition to extended trading hours was not surprising due to related documents filed with the CFTC last month. The company made the announcement on its Discord channel on August 5, 2025, by a staff member. One of Kalshi's partners is Robinhood Markets, an investing and trading app popular among younger market participants.
References: 1. [Source 1] 2. [Source 2] 3. [Source 3]
- The shift to almost 24/7 trading on Kalshi's event futures contracts, effective from August 7, 2025, demonstrates an attempt to cater to the tech-savvy lifestyle of younger retail traders, who are already active in the cryptocurrency financial business.
- By offering a competitive advantage through extended trading hours, Kalshi aims to attract younger retail traders, increase user engagement and volume, and potentially boost liquidity in the prediction market industry.
- The potential legal battles with various states regarding sports event contracts could pose a challenge for Kalshi, as critics argue these contracts amount to sports betting, which is yet to be approved by the state.
- Kalshi's partnership with Robinhood Markets, an investing and trading app popular among younger market participants, may help the company further penetrate the lucrative and tech-focused financial business.
