What Is NQ in Futures Trading? A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re exploring global futures markets, you’ve likely come across NQ futures. But what does NQ really mean, and why is it so important for traders, especially in India?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is NQ?
NQ is the ticker symbol for Nasdaq-100 futures – a futures contract that tracks the performance of the Nasdaq-100 Index, which includes the 100 largest non-financial tech-heavy companies listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.
These include major U.S. firms like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Tesla.
NQ Futures Contract Overview
| Detail | Value (Standard Contract) |
|---|---|
| Ticker Symbol | NQ |
| Exchange | CME (Chicago Mercantile Exchange) |
| Contract Size | $20 × Nasdaq-100 Index Level |
| Minimum Tick | 0.25 index points |
| Tick Value | $5 per tick |
| Trading Hours (IST) | 6:30 AM – 5:00 AM (next day) |
NQ futures are traded nearly 23 hours a day, which gives Indian traders access to global market momentum before NSE opens.
Why Do Indian Traders Follow NQ?
- Tech Market Exposure: Indian traders get indirect access to U.S. tech giants.
- Overnight Clues: Helps predict how Indian indices might open (like Nifty).
- Volatility Opportunities: NQ is known for sharp movements, ideal for intraday and swing traders.
Quick Tip:
Many Indian brokers offer access to U.S. markets through international trading platforms. You can also paper trade NQ via TradingView or Thinkorswim.
Related Reading:
FAQs: What People Also Ask
1. What does NQ stand for in trading?
NQ is the symbol for Nasdaq-100 futures, representing the index of 100 top U.S. non-financial companies.
2. What is the lot size of NQ futures?
The standard NQ futures contract size is $20 × Nasdaq-100 Index. Micro contracts (MNQ) are also available.
3. Can Indian traders invest in NQ futures?
Yes, through international brokerage accounts or by tracking NQ for cues on tech market trends.
4. Is NQ the same as NAS100?
While both track the same index, NQ is the futures contract, and NAS100 usually refers to CFDs or spot instruments.
5. What time can I trade NQ futures in India?
From 6:30 AM IST to 5:00 AM the next day (CME Globex session hours).
