CME Group Achieves Major Milestone: Over 3 Billion Micro E-mini Equity Index Futures Traded

CME Group Celebrates a Major Milestone: 3 Billion Micro E-mini Equity Index Futures Traded

CME Group, recognized as the foremost global derivatives marketplace, has made history by surpassing the monumental threshold of three billion traded contracts in its Micro E-mini Equity Index futures. This remarkable feat was achieved as of November 29, 2024, and underscores the growing popularity and liquidity of these index products.

Tim McCourt, who serves as the Global Head of Equities, FX, and Alternative Products at CME Group, stated, "With over three billion of these contracts traded in less than five years, our Micro E-mini Equity Index futures continue to establish themselves among the most actively traded and deeply liquid index products. As investors navigate ongoing market uncertainties, the ability to choose from a wide range of indexes becomes increasingly vital. Our extensive product offerings across all major U.S. indexes empower clients to better manage their index exposure according to their needs."

Since their introduction in May 2019, Micro E-mini Equity Index futures, which include offerings based on the S&P 500, the Nasdaq-100®, the Russell 2000, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, have proven to be one of CME Group's most successful product launches in nearly 180 years of operation. The addition of Micro E-mini derivatives has democratized access to trading these significant indexes, allowing investors to make moves in a more flexible manner. Recent expansions to the suite include the Micro E-mini SP MidCap 400 and Micro E-mini SmallCap 600 futures, launched in March 2023.

CME Group’s platform provides a robust foundation for traders, highlighted by a strong demand for Micro E-mini futures. The average daily volume in 2024 has reached an impressive 2.5 million contracts, with 19% of trading occurring outside traditional U.S. market hours. In the past year alone, trading activity has surged with over 700 firms and 620,000 unique accounts participating.

Emily Spurling, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Index at Nasdaq, shared her congratulations to CME Group, acknowledging their longstanding partnership that has provided investors access to the Nasdaq-100 Index® for more than 25 years. "The Micro E-mini Nasdaq-100 Index offers investors increased flexibility in managing their portfolios," she noted. This collaboration reflects a commitment to innovation in financial products that suit evolving investor needs.

Additionally, Tim Brennan, Global Head of Capital Markets at SP Dow Jones Indices, recognized CME Group's achievement as a validation of the enduring strength of widely respected indices such as the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average. "This milestone reinforces their status as premier benchmarks for assessing the U.S. equity market," he affirmed.

Shawn Creighton, Director of Index Derivatives Solutions for FTSE Russell, also expressed his pride in the partnership with CME Group, emphasizing continued efforts to expand the Russell 2000 product offerings. This index has long been viewed as a standard for small-cap performance since its inception in 1984.

With ongoing client demand and robust support from index partners and the intermediary community, Micro E-mini contracts will need to expand their reach further. CME Group remains dedicated to equipping investors with effective risk management tools and investment strategies. For additional insights into Micro E-mini Equity Index Products, prospective traders can visit www.cmegroup.com/microeminis.

As the world's leading derivatives marketplace, CME Group enables clients to trade a diverse range of products, empowering market participants to effectively manage risk and seize opportunities. The CME Group's exchanges facilitate the trading of futures, options, and other financial instruments across major asset classes, ensuring a holistic approach to market engagement. With the continuous evolution of the trading landscape, the recent achievements of CME Group signal its ongoing commitment to innovation and responsiveness to market demands.

The CME Group brand, including its trademarks and services, is a hallmark of trust in the financial trading industry, reflecting nearly two centuries of experience and expertise. As they look ahead, CME Group is poised to continue redefining product offerings and elevating investor experiences in the global market.