Blog | StoneX Futures

US30 CFD vs. Micro E-mini Dow Futures (MYM): A Smarter Way to Trade the Dow

Written by StoneX | May 7, 2025 7:22:55 PM

Key Takeaways

  • US30 CFDs are broker-based and unregulated, while MYM Futures are exchange-traded, regulated, and fully legal for U.S. traders.
  • MYM offers a smaller contract size ($0.50/point), giving traders more control, flexibility, and lower risk per trade.
  • Futures provide real price transparency thanks to centralized execution through CME Group.
  • U.S. traders may benefit from favorable 60/40 tax treatment on MYM trades, something CFDs don’t offer.

If you're an active CFD trader, especially on platforms offering the US30, you’ve likely taken advantage of the volatility and momentum of the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The US30 CFD is a favorite among short-term traders for good reason: it’s fast-moving, tied to major market news, and offers potential in both directions. 

But here’s the catch—CFDs are not permitted for U.S.-based traders, and even outside the U.S., CFD trading can lack transparency, regulation, and standardized pricing.

That’s why more traders are turning to Micro E-mini Dow Futures (MYM), a regulated, exchange-traded product that delivers the same index exposure in a smaller and more accessible contract size.

Let’s compare both side-by-side and help you decide which one fits your trading goals. 

What is the US30 CFD?

US30 is a CFD (Contract for Difference) that mirrors the price of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). When you trade it, you're not trading on a centralized exchange—you’re entering into a private contract with your broker, who sets the terms, pricing, margin, and spreads.

This makes it fast and flexible, but also comes with downsides like less price transparency and broker conflict of interest. 

What Is the Micro E-mini Dow Futures (MYM)?

MYM is the Micro E-mini version of the E-mini Dow Futures contract. It trades on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), part of CME Group, and gives you exposure to the Dow with a $0.50 per point contract size—1/10th the size of the regular E-mini Dow (YM).

It’s designed for traders who want Dow exposure in a more capital-efficient and controlled way—without giving up the benefits of futures: transparency, regulation, and access. 

US30 CFD vs. Micro E-mini Dow Futures: Head-to-Head Comparison 

Feature US30 CFD Micro E-mini Dow (MYM)
Market Type OTC (Over-the-Counter) Exchange-traded (CBOT / CME Group)
Contract Size Varies by broker (e.g., $1 per point) $0.50 x DJIA Index
Regulation Limited or unregulated CFTC- and NFA-regulated
Transparency Broker-determined pricing Central order book, real volume
Counterparty Risk Broker is your counterparty Central clearinghouse ensures trades
Margin / Leverage Set by broker, flexible Regulated, set by exchange
Availability in U.S. Not permitted Fully available
Tax Treatment (U.S.) Subject to short-term gains May qualify for 60/40 blended tax treatment

Key Similarities

✅ Speculate on the Dow - Both instruments follow the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

✅ Leverage Access - Control larger positions with smaller capital.

✅ Up or Down Markets - Go long or short with ease. 

✅ Active Trader Appeal - Both are suited for intraday, swing, or macro event trading.

Why MYM May Be a Better Choice for Many Traders

If you’re looking for a reliable, regulated way to trade the Dow with a small account, MYM has some real advantages:

  • Smaller Tick Value = Less Risk – At $0.50 per point, the Micro E-mini Dow lets you scale in and out with less capital at risk.
  • No Broker Games – MYM trades on a centralized exchange with a transparent order book.
  • U.S.-Compliant – MYM is legal and accessible for U.S.-based traders, unlike CFDs.
  • Institutional-Grade Access for Retail Traders – Trade side-by-side with professional money using the same tools.
  • Scalable – Want to increase your position size? Add more contracts. Want to test the waters? Start with one.

Example: US30 CFD vs MYM Futures

Let’s say the Dow is trading at 38,000.

  • US30 CFD (typical size): $1 per point
  • A 100-point move = $100 profit or loss.

  • MYM Futures: $0.50 per point
  • A 100-point move = $50 profit or loss per contract.

This lets you size your position based on your risk tolerance, and scale with confidence. 

Final Thoughts 

If you’re currently trading US30 CFDs, the Micro E-mini Dow (MYM) offers a powerful next step—especially if you’re in the U.S. or simply want a more transparent, regulated way to trade the Dow. 

MYM is built for traders who want: 

  • Lower capital requirements 
  • Institutional pricing and execution 
  • Regulatory oversight 
  • Real access to one of the most traded indices in the world 

Ready to make the move to MYM? Open a futures trading account today and start trading the Dow—your way, in a fully regulated market. 

Created with the assistance of AI.