What Is the NQ Ticker?
NQ is the ticker symbol for E-mini Nasdaq-100 futures, one of the most actively traded contracts in the world. It tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index, which includes the 100 largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange.
Think Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Tesla, Google—the tech giants driving the index.
Why Traders Love NQ
High Volatility
The NQ ticker is known for big moves. Tech stocks are volatile, and NQ amplifies that with leverage. 50-100 point daily ranges are common.
Deep Liquidity
Millions of NQ contracts trade daily. Tight bid-ask spreads and instant fills make it ideal for day traders and scalpers.
Nearly 24-Hour Trading
NQ trades Sunday evening through Friday afternoon. You can trade overnight sessions, capturing moves during Asian and European markets.
Leverage
Each point in NQ = $20. A 10-point move = $200 profit/loss. This leverage lets you control large positions with relatively small margin.
NQ vs. ES: Key Differences
Traders often compare NQ to ES (E-mini S&P 500):
- NQ: Tech-heavy, more volatile, $20/point
- ES: Broad market, less volatile, $50/point
NQ typically moves faster with bigger percentage swings. ES is steadier with less dramatic moves.
How to Trade the NQ Ticker
Popular strategies include:
- Scalping: Quick 2-5 point moves, in and out fast
- Day Trading: Capturing intraday trends and reversals
- Swing Trading: Holding overnight for multi-day moves
According to the CME Group, NQ consistently ranks among the top traded futures contracts.
Micro NQ (MNQ)
Can’t afford full NQ margin? Trade Micro E-mini Nasdaq-100 (MNQ):
- MNQ: $2 per point (1/10th the size of NQ)
- Lower margin: Start with smaller capital
- Same market: Identical price movements, just smaller contract
Risks of Trading NQ
The volatility that makes NQ attractive also makes it risky:
- Fast Moves: Can gap against you quickly
- Leverage Risk: Big losses happen fast
- Overnight Risk: Gaps at session opens
Always use stop losses and never risk more than 1-2% per trade.
The Bottom Line
The NQ ticker offers volatility, liquidity, and trading flexibility. It’s a favorite among futures traders who want action and are comfortable with risk.
Start with MNQ if you’re learning, graduate to NQ as your account and skills grow.
Ready to trade NQ? Check out Elite Trader Funding for prop firm evaluations. Explore more NQ trading insights.