The Milan stock exchange could become the first European bourse to stay open during the evening, reports The Wall Street Journal Europe.

The plan would put it in line with the traditional close of dealings on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market. Both US markets are looking at longer trading hours as well. The exchange's decision is in response to the explosive growth in the country's army of private investors and those who reach their brokers through the internet. Online brokers tell the stock exchange that they are busiest around 6pm.