What is News Blackout?
A news blackout is a defined window of time around high-impact economic releases during which trading is prohibited or restricted. Typical blackouts span 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the release, though some firms extend this to 5-15 minutes for major events. Traders who hold positions through a blackout window may face automatic position closure, profit voiding, or account termination depending on the firm. The shift toward allowing news trading in 2026 has reduced the prevalence of blackout policies.
Key takeaways
A trading restriction window around news releases.
A news blackout is a defined window of time around high-impact economic releases during which trading is prohibited or restricted.
Typical blackouts span 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the release, though some firms extend this to 5-15 minutes for major events.
The shift toward allowing news trading in 2026 has reduced the prevalence of blackout policies.
News Blackout vs. News Trading
Two terms that frequently get conflated. Here's how they actually differ.
News BlackoutTrading Styles · PRO
News TradingTrading Styles · PRO
A trading restriction window around news releases.
Trading during high-impact economic news releases.
Frequently asked questions
What is News Blackout?
A news blackout is a defined window of time around high-impact economic releases during which trading is prohibited or restricted. Typical blackouts span 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the release, though some firms extend this to 5-15 minutes for major events. Traders who hold positions through a blackout window may face automatic position closure, profit voiding, or account termination depending on the firm.
Why does News Blackout matter for prop firm traders?
News Blackout affects how you're allowed to trade on a prop firm account. Many firms layer restrictions onto specific styles to protect their treasury — and those restrictions need to fit how you actually trade.
How is News Blackout different from News Trading?
News Blackout and News Trading are commonly confused. News Blackout: A trading restriction window around news releases. News Trading, by contrast: Trading during high-impact economic news releases.
What should traders watch out for with News Blackout?
Style restrictions are often layered: a firm that allows scalping may still ban HFT-like behaviour, and minimum hold times can void otherwise legitimate trades.