ZAforexWhat is the Nasdaq 100?
The Nasdaq-100 tracks the 100 largest non-financial companies on the Nasdaq exchange, including NVIDIA, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Meta, Alphabet, Broadcom and Tesla. It is much more tech-heavy than the S&P 500, so it tends to rise faster in bull markets and fall harder in sell-offs. Don't confuse it with the Nasdaq Composite, which includes more than 3,000 Nasdaq-listed stocks.
NAS100 trading
At forex brokers the Nasdaq 100 is usually listed as NAS100 or US100. It reacts strongly to US interest-rate expectations, CPI and big tech earnings. The busiest time to trade from South Africa is the US cash open at 15:30 SAST (16:30 in the US winter).
What moves the Nasdaq 100?
- The Federal Reserve: rate cuts tend to support stocks, hikes weigh on them (see FOMC).
- Inflation and jobs data: CPI and NFP change rate expectations.
- Company earnings, especially the largest tech companies.
- Bond yields and the dollar.
Trading hours in South African time
| Session | US summer (Mar–Nov) | US winter (Nov–Mar) |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-market | 10:00–15:30 SAST | 11:00–16:30 SAST |
| Regular session | 15:30–22:00 SAST | 16:30–23:00 SAST |
| After hours | 22:00–02:00 SAST | 23:00–03:00 SAST |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Nasdaq 100 today?
The live level and daily change are shown in the chart at the top of this page.
Can I invest in the Nasdaq 100 from South Africa?
Yes, through JSE-listed index ETFs, offshore brokerage accounts or unit trusts. CFD trading is also possible but leveraged and high risk.