NQ -- March 18, 2026
BEARISHE-mini Nasdaq 100 -- CME
How To Use This Archived Analysis
Use this page during review when you need a structured read on levels, event risk, and the specific mistakes this market snapshot could trigger for prop-firm traders.
What This Page Will Not Do
This analysis is not a trade signal and it does not know your live account state, size, or psychology. Use it as context and risk framing, not as an instruction to enter.
Summary
NQ is underperforming ES this morning as tech earnings concerns weigh on sentiment. The NQ/ES ratio has dropped to 3.48, down from 3.52 last week. Semiconductor stocks are leading the weakness after a bearish analyst note on chip inventory levels. NQ is testing the 18,880 support level.
Trading Notes
NQ/ES divergence is notable. NQ weakness is sector-specific (semis) rather than broad market.
The 18,880 level aligns with a high-volume node from last week. Expect a fight at this level.
Mag-7 stocks reporting next week. Position-squaring has started early.
After-hours earnings from major retailers could influence overnight NQ direction.
Prop Firm Warnings
NQ moves $20 per point per contract. A 50-point whipsaw is $1,000 per contract. Size accordingly.
FTMO and FundedNext traders: NQ pip value is different from ES. Double-check your position size calculator.
Avoid holding NQ positions through after-hours earnings releases. The gap risk can exceed daily loss limits.
Suggested Strategy
Short bias. Sell rallies to the 18,950-19,020 resistance zone with stops above 19,050. Target 18,800. If 18,880 breaks with volume, add to shorts targeting 18,720. Keep position size 50% smaller than ES due to higher per-point value.
News Impact
| Event | Impact | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Semiconductor Analyst Downgrade | high | Pre-market |
| Retail Earnings After Close | medium | 4:15 PM ET |
Key Levels
| Level | Price |
|---|---|
| R1 | 19,100.00 |
| R2 | 19,020.00 |
| R3 | 18,950.00 |
| PIVOT | 18,915.00 |
| S1 | 18,880.00 |
| S2 | 18,800.00 |
| S3 | 18,720.00 |
Risk Level
high
This analysis is AI-generated for educational purposes only. It is not financial advice. Always follow your prop firm's specific rules and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making trading decisions. Past performance does not guarantee future results.