Distinguish tick size from tick value
Both contracts have a tick size of 0.25 index points. One point is USD 20 for NQ and USD 2 for MNQ, giving tick values of USD 5 and USD 0.50. Use the calculator to compare contract counts for the same stop distance.
Compare size before and after costs
A ten-point move represents USD 200 for one NQ or USD 20 for one MNQ before costs. Ten MNQ contracts match the point value of one NQ, but fees, execution and available liquidity are not automatically identical. Use the actual costs of the specific contract.
What to preserve in a Nasdaq review
Keep the contract month, quantity, source timestamp and session classification. Do not compare an executed future directly with an index level without checking the price reference. If GEX context comes from index options, any mapping onto futures needs to remain explicit.
The linked NQ review uses eight synthetic trades with transparent reconciliation. It demonstrates the method without claiming a real trading day or customer performance.
| Contract | Point value | Tick size | Tick value |
|---|---|---|---|
| NQ | 20 | 0.25 | 5 |
| MNQ | 2 | 0.25 | 0.5 |
Sources and methodology
Worked examples are original and synthetic. Verify contract specifications with the provider before use.