BSE Plans to Introduce Pre-Open Trading in Equity Derivatives from December 8

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has proposed to launch pre-open trading in index and stock futures under the Equity Derivatives Segment starting December 8, 2025. This extension aims to improve price discovery and enhance market efficiency during the early phase of trading. Currently, the pre-open session is available only for the Equity Segment. 

BSE confirmed that no new changes will be made in the ETI API or market data broadcast streams, ensuring smooth operational continuity for trading members.

Testing Phase Commences from October 6, 2025

To ensure seamless implementation, BSE will start simulation testing of this new functionality from October 6, 2025. Trading members and technology vendors are urged to modify their front-end applications accordingly and participate in the test environment sessions for system compatibility checks and readiness validation.

As per news reports, BSE stated, "Members and third-party front-end trading application vendors are requested to initiate changes in their respective applications and test the same in the test environment to ensure a smooth rollout".

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Pre-Open Session Features Will Mirror Equity Segment

The message structures and field definitions for this upcoming pre-open session in derivatives will mirror those already in use in the Equity Segment. This unified structure aims to minimise adaptation efforts for participants while maintaining consistency across segments. The decision reflects BSE’s initiative to extend proven systems and workflows across trading verticals for enhanced user experience.

Conclusion

The BSE’s proposal to enable pre-open trading in equity derivatives from December 8, 2025, brings it in sync with existing mechanisms in the cash segment. By offering a pre-open session for index and stock futures, the exchange moves towards enhanced price discovery and improved trading discipline. Stakeholders should utilise the October 6, 2025, testing phase to fully adapt systems and prepare for a smooth transition.

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