The Intercontinental Exchange (ICE.N) has announced it will extend daily trading hours for its European gas and power contracts. According to a circular released late on Wednesday, the new hours will be implemented by February 23. ICE is a leading global provider of data, technology, and market infrastructure. The exchange offers access to a broad range of markets and data services.
The extended trading hours aim to align with the 22-hour trading cycle of the US Henry Hub gas market, reflecting Europe’s increasing reliance on globally traded liquefied natural gas (LNG). The United States has emerged as a key supplier of LNG to Europe, making closer alignment of trading hours beneficial for market participants.
The new trading hours for Dutch TTF, British National Balancing Point (NBP), and German Power contracts will be 01:50-00:00 CET, a significant change from the current 08:00-18:00 CET window, ICE stated. The company plans to engage with its members and their customers in the coming weeks to discuss the proposed extension.
ICE will confirm the effective date of the new trading hours in due course, following discussions with market participants. The extension is expected to facilitate more efficient trading and better reflect the global nature of the gas market.
