On January 9, 2025, the U.S. marked a National Day of Mourning for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. In his honor, the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq closed for the day, a tradition for mourning former presidents. President Joe Biden declared the day to allow Americans to pay their respects, closing federal offices and the USPS. Bond markets operated on reduced hours, while banks and schools remained open. Carter's state funeral was held at the Washington National Cathedral, attended by many dignitaries.
The United States observed a National Day of Mourning on January 9, 2025, in memory of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. To honor his legacy, the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq closed their doors, a rare mid-week shutdown to commemorate the life of a former president. President Joe Biden declared the day to allow Americans to pay their respects, leading to the closure of federal offices and the USPS. Carter's state funeral took place at the Washington National Cathedral, drawing numerous dignitaries and public figures.
In a rare move, both the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq remained closed on January 9, 2025, as part of the National Day of Mourning for former President Jimmy Carter. This tradition of closing the stock markets upon the death of a U.S. president dates back to the assassination of Abraham Lincoln in 1865. The last occurrence was in 2018, following the death of George H.W. Bush. Tal Cohen, president of Nasdaq, stated that the financial industry collectively decided to honor Carter's service, both as president and in his post-presidential humanitarian work [1] [4].
President Joe Biden declared January 9, 2025, as a National Day of Mourning, leading to the closure of federal institutions, including the United States Postal Service. The declaration allowed Americans to gather in places of worship to pay homage to Carter's memory. Despite the day not being an official federal holiday, banks and schools remained open. Bond markets operated on reduced hours, closing at 2 p.m. Eastern Time, while trading of energy and metals futures continued on regular hours [2] [3].
The state funeral for Jimmy Carter was held at the Washington National Cathedral, attended by numerous dignitaries, including all five living current and former U.S. presidents. The ceremony was a somber tribute to Carter's life of public service and humanitarian work. Carter, who served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, was remembered for his dedication to human rights and peace, earning him a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Following the service, Carter's body was transported to Plains, Georgia, for a private interment [5] [6].
The National Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter was a significant event, reflecting the impact of his legacy on the nation. The closure of stock markets and federal offices underscored the respect and admiration held for Carter's contributions as a leader and humanitarian. As the U.S. paid tribute to the former president, the day served as a reminder of the values Carter championed throughout his life, including peace, human rights, and public service.
"The financial industry collectively made a decision to honor what he's done, the service he's provided as president — and after he's been president." - Tal Cohen
"Jimmy Carter, with humble roots as a farmer and family man, devoted his life to public service and defending our freedom." - Lynn Martin
"My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love." - Chip Carter