NQ -- March 21, 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
Quad-witching Friday with NQ still reeling from yesterday's FOMC selloff. Overnight session saw a test of 18,620 support that held by 8 points. The market is attempting a relief rally in pre-market, trading near 18,750. Options expiration at 18,800 and 19,000 strikes will create pin risk. Expect choppy, directionless action.
Trading Notes
Quad-witching + post-FOMC = lowest signal-to-noise ratio of the month. Most moves will be noise, not signal.
The 18,800 strike has the largest open interest. Expect gravitational pull toward this level.
End-of-day rebalance flows (3:30-4:00 PM) will be massive. Do not interpret this as directional signal.
NQ weekly chart shows a bearish engulfing with above-average volume. The technical picture is negative.
Prop Firm Warnings
Absolute worst day to trade NQ on a prop firm account. Quad-witching + post-FOMC creates random, violent moves.
If you must trade, use micro NQ (MNQ) contracts at $2/point instead of full NQ at $20/point.
Apex and TopStep trailing drawdown: your floor moved up during last week's rally. The current selloff is eating into real cushion.
This is a capital preservation day. No shame in zero trades.
Suggested Strategy
Stay flat. If you cannot resist, scalp only with micro contracts (MNQ). Use the 18,620-18,800 range as boundaries. Take 15-20 point profits. Close all positions before 3:00 PM to avoid expiration chaos.
News Impact
| Event | Impact | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Quad Witching Expiration | high | All day |
Key Levels
| Level | Price |
|---|---|
| R1 | 18,950.00 |
| R2 | 18,880.00 |
| R3 | 18,800.00 |
| PIVOT | 18,720.00 |
| S1 | 18,620.00 |
| S2 | 18,550.00 |
| S3 | 18,480.00 |
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.