In September 1997, the CME introduced a smaller version of the S&P 500 futures and options contracts, called the E-mini - for electronic Mini - S&P 500. The E-mini is the futures industry's first small-order electronic order routing and execution system, allowing you to get your Mini S&P 500 trades executed quickly and easily. The order entry, routing and trade matching systems for all E-mini options and for smaller futures orders are completely electronic. Traders are executed primarily on the GLOBEX® electronic trading system. 

E-Mini futures and options trade virtually around-the-clock with the exception of the 15 minute period from 3:15 - 3:30 p.m. Monday - Friday (Chicago Time). After each Friday's close, at 3:15 p.m., markets will be closed until the normal GLOBEX start-up at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

The U.S. economy is being transformed by exciting technological changes and advancements in science and industry. Many of the leading companies involved in this process are a part of the Nasdaq-100 Index®. CME offers an E-mini version of the Nasdaq-100 futures at one-fifth the size of the original Nasdaq-100 futures, making these exciting contracts affordable for all investors.