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How to Trade Premarket

So, how do you trade during premarket hours? You start by:

1. Ensure that the trade you wish to make is allowed by your broker
2. Determine how many shares you want to buy or sell — using your budget as a guide
3. Submit the order
4. Remain patient

When you’re ready to trade premarket, you need to know what you’re doing. During premarket hours, you may be allowed to complete trades, purchases, or sales if your broker allows it. Some brokers might allow you limited access to the markets while others may only have access to a few networks. 

As a result, order speeds may be slower than during normal market hours. Check the guidelines and disclosures for your brokerage account before assuming your broker allows for premarket trading. 

Yes, you may be responding to current news items, but so are many other traders. Understand your limitations before jumping into a trade that may or may not be timely or make sense.

Frequently Asked Questions About Premarket Trading

When does premarket open?

Premarket occurs 7 am EST to 9:30 am EST Monday - Friday. After-hours trading occurs from 4 pm EST to 8 pm EST during the workweek. In the Central Time Zone, premarket begins at 6 am and ends at 8:30 am. In the Mountain time zone, premarket lasts from 5:00 am until 7:30 am, and in the Pacific time zone, premarket begins at 4 am and ends at 6:30 am. 

Can you buy options premarket?

Generally, no, you cannot buy options premarket. Options usually trade from 9:30 am to 4 pm EST. 

Can you set a stop loss in premarket?

No, you cannot set a stop loss in the premarket. Stop orders generally only trigger during market sessions from 9:30 am to 4 pm EST. 

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