The US stock market is the largest in the world, with a combined value of more than half of all global stock markets. When US stocks fall sharply, Asian markets, including Thailand's, are often affected the following morning.
The Two Main Exchanges: NYSE and Nasdaq
| NYSE | Nasdaq | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1792 | 1971 |
| Key characteristics | Traditional large companies, such as banks, energy and industrials | Technology and fast-growing companies |
| Example companies | JPMorgan, Walmart, Exxon Mobil, Berkshire Hathaway | Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta |
| Related indices | Dow Jones, S&P 500 (includes stocks from both exchanges) | Nasdaq Composite, Nasdaq-100 |
Today both exchanges trade electronically in the same way. Ordinary investors see almost no difference when placing orders.
Trading Hours in Thai Time
The US market is open 9:30–16:00 New York time (Monday–Friday), but the US observes Daylight Saving Time, which shifts Thai time by 1 hour at different times of the year.
| Period | Thai time |
|---|---|
| Summer (approx. mid-March – early November) | 20:30 – 03:00 |
| Winter (approx. early November – mid-March) | 21:30 – 04:00 |
There are also Pre-market (before the market opens) and After-hours (after the market closes) sessions, which have lower liquidity and prices that can swing sharply.
Key US economic data, such as employment and inflation, is released at 8:30 New York time, which is 19:30 (summer) or 20:30 (winter) Thai time, one hour before the stock market opens.
Why the US Stock Market Matters to Everyone
- Size Many of the world's largest companies are listed here. The movements of just a few stocks can affect indices worldwide.
- The dollar and the Fed The interest rate policy of the US central bank sets the cost of money for the world, so the US stock market reacts to the Fed before anyone else.
- Sentiment Investors around the world use the S&P 500 and the VIX (volatility index) to gauge whether the market is in "risk-on" or "risk-off" mode.
How Can Thai Investors Invest in US Stocks?
- Open a foreign stock account with a Thai securities company licensed by the SEC, many of which offer this service
- Invest through mutual funds that invest in US stocks or the S&P 500 index
- Buy DRs (Depositary Receipts) on the Thai stock exchange, which are based on certain foreign stocks
Read more: What are the S&P 500, Nasdaq and Dow Jones indices?
For education only, not investment advice. Figures change over time, so check official sources before making decisions.