[concerned about politics]

A technical issue caused the trading halt, Reuters reported, citing a source.

Gee. The same "technical issue" that hit the airline industry today?
Golly! What are the odds? (/s)

[aegiscg47]

My thinking is that with the current loss rate on global stocks that a "breather" was needed by the larger firms. Run new algorithms, lay in new orders, consult with the staff, etc., to get a strategy up and running for when the NYSE comes back online. Basically, anything to minimize the losses and perhaps make some profit along the way.