Union Budget 2026: Will Markets Be Open on Sunday? Key Details You Need for Feb 1
The Union Budget 2026, scheduled for February 1, marks an important moment for India's economy. This blog covers key dates, the history of weekend Budgets and what to expect in the lead-up to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's presentation.
The Union Budget 2026 is set for Sunday, February 1, 2026. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has confirmed the date, dispelling speculation about a shift despite it falling on a weekend.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her ninth consecutive Budget – marking India's 80th since Independence.
Markets will be watching closely for cues on fiscal policy, capital expenditure and reforms. This blog launches our Budget 2026 series, with more analysis on expectations and sector impacts to follow.
Budget Session 2026 Schedule
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju shared the roadmap via social media, approved by President Droupadi Murmu. Both Houses of Parliament will convene as follows:
- Starts: January 28, 2026
- First Phase Ends: February 13, 2026
- Recess: For standing committees to review ministry grants
- Resumes: March 9, 2026
- Concludes: April 2, 2026
A Weekend Budget: Is it a First?
Weekend Budgets are uncommon but not unprecedented. While Sunday presentations are relatively rare, they have occurred in the past. For example, Budget 2025 and Budget 2015 were presented on a Saturday.
Interestingly, the last time a Union Budget was presented on a Sunday was on February 28, 1999, by then-Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha.
Will the Markets Be Open on Budget Day?
One big question for traders: Will BSE and NSE stay open on Sunday, February 1? If we look back at history, the answer has varied. When Budget 2015 was presented on Saturday, February 28, both stock exchanges (BSE and NSE) were closed for the day.
However, in 2025, when the Budget was announced on Saturday, February 1, the markets remained open and regular trading sessions took place.
So, what's the plan for 2026? According to a circular issued by the NSE on January 16, the markets will indeed remain open on February 1, Budget Day.
Stay Ahead with Budget Insights
As February 1, 2026, draws near, the excitement builds around what Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present in this landmark budget. Stay tuned as we continue to analyse and track every development in the lead-up to the Union Budget 2026!
Don’t miss out on timely updates and expert insights – Subscribe now and be prepared for the market moves ahead of the Union Budget!