5 PM Pacific Time Marks Pivotal Moment for Global Markets, Influencing Liquidity and Volatility

The close of the primary US equity markets on the West Coast at 5 PM Pacific Time (00:00 UTC the following day) is highlighted as a critical juncture for global markets. This hour sees liquidity diminish, leading to increased volatility in index futures and major currency pairs as traders adjust positions and derivatives settlement prices are determined.