Is the US stock market open on February 18, 2026 for HK investors?

Yes. After the Presidents Day market closure, U.S. equity markets reopen on Tuesday, February 18, 2026. For Hong Kong, the NYSE cash session runs from about 10:30 pm HKT to 5:00 am HKT. Futures trade earlier on Globex, offering cues before the cash open.

How does the NYSE holiday schedule affect trading plans?

The NYSE holiday schedule reduces liquidity around closures and the next session’s open. Spreads can widen and price discovery may take longer. Plan staggered entries, avoid market orders near the close, and confirm breadth before sizing up. Keep an eye on overnight futures to gauge sentiment before cash trading.

Why is Walmart earnings week important for the S&P 500?

Walmart is a key barometer for U.S. consumer demand. Its guidance on comps, e‑commerce, grocery margins, and costs can sway staples, discretionary, and suppliers. Strong traffic with stable margins can support index breadth, while cautious outlooks may pull cyclicals and retail lower.

How could oil and gold moves influence sector leadership?

Rising oil often lifts energy while weighing on transports and some retailers. A gold pullback can point to firmer real yields and a stronger dollar, which may help financials but challenge rate‑sensitive growth. Watch whether leadership broadens beyond one commodity theme for a healthier trend.

What are good timing practices for HK traders on the reopen?

Wait 30–60 minutes after the 10:30 pm HKT cash open to let spreads tighten. Use limit orders, scale positions, and anchor stops near recent swing lows. Track USD/HKD and the U.S. 10‑year yield for macro cues, and reassess if breadth or financials fail to confirm early strength.

Global Market Insights

^GSPC Today: February 18 – Markets Reopen; Walmart, Oil in Focus

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

After the US stock market holiday 2026 for Presidents Day, U.S. equities reopen tonight for Hong Kong investors. We will watch ^GSPC as liquidity returns after last week’s AI-driven swings. Walmart’s results later in Walmart earnings week, plus oil’s rebound and gold’s pullback, could set sector tone. With the cash open and market breadth likely to drive direction, we outline Hong Kong timings, key signals, and simple trade plans for the first 24 hours.