Union Budget 2026 on Sunday, Feb 1: Markets to open? Centre clears schedule

• The Centre has confirmed the Union Budget 2026 will be presented on Sunday, February 1, despite speculation of a delay.
• This marks the first time in recent history the Union Budget will be presented on a Sunday.
• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her ninth consecutive Union Budget, the 88th since Independence.
• The National Stock Exchange (NSE) is evaluating keeping equity markets open on Sunday, February 1, if the Budget is presented.
• Opening markets on a Sunday for Budget presentation has historical precedent, but no final decision has been made by NSE or BSE.

Why It Matters: Union Budget 2026 confirmed for Sunday, February 1; stock exchanges evaluating Sunday trading.