Beginner2 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
Session Overlaps — Complete Guide
Master session overlaps — the highest volatility periods when two major sessions trade simultaneously.
What are Session Overlaps?
Session overlaps occur when two major trading sessions are active simultaneously. These periods generate the highest volume, tightest spreads, and strongest directional moves — making them ideal for trading.
Major Overlaps
| Overlap | Sessions | Time (BD) | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| London-Tokyo | London + Asian | 1:00 - 3:00 PM | Moderate, London takes over |
| London-New York | London + NY | 6:00 - 10:00 PM | HIGHEST volatility |
| Sydney-Tokyo | Sydney + Asian | 5:00 - 8:00 AM | Quiet, AUD/JPY focus |
London-New York Overlap (The Big One)
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM BD
This is the most important trading window globally:
- Highest volume of the entire day
- Tightest spreads on major pairs
- Strongest directional moves
- Most reliable breakouts
- ~70% of daily range is established here
Best for:
- Continuation of London's move
- NY reversals
- News-reaction trades (US data at 6:30 PM BD)
- Momentum scalping
Why Overlaps Matter
| Factor | During Overlap | Outside Overlap |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | Very high | Low-moderate |
| Spread | Tightest | Wider |
| Moves | Strongest | Choppy |
| Patterns | Most reliable | Less reliable |
| Liquidity | Abundant | Thin |
Trading Rules for Overlaps
- Prioritize the London-NY overlap for all major pair trades
- Direction from London usually continues into overlap
- US news at 6:30 PM BD can reverse London's direction
- After 10:00 PM BD volume drops — reduce activity
- Best pairs during overlap: EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY
Related Topics
- London Session — First overlap participant
- New York Session — Second participant
- Kill Zones — Overlap as kill zone
- Best Trading Times BD — BD schedule