Futures mechanics
What is the difference between a Standard Contract, an E-mini Contract, and a Micro E-mini Contract?
By Easy Money Scanner · Educational reference · Not investment advice
The short answer
Standard contracts are full-size; E-mini contracts are fractional-size versions; Micro E-minis are further reduced, roughly 1/10th of an E-mini.
How it works
CME introduced smaller sizes to broaden retail access, lowering margin and tick dollar value while keeping identical underlying exposure.
An example
MES is 1/10 the size of ES, cutting margin requirements proportionally.
Risk & limitations
Smaller contracts still carry leveraged risk; size reduction doesn't eliminate loss potential.
Examples are hypothetical, not trade recommendations. US contract and regulatory references do not automatically apply in Canada. Rules, margin requirements and broker policies can change; confirm them with the relevant authority and your broker.