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      Get great rates on majors like EUR/USD, plus minors and exotics

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      Enjoy 24-hour pricing on the UK100, US30 and more

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      Trade on metals, energies & softs, with oil spreads from 2 cents

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    • Dividends for index CFDs
    • Dividends for share CFDs
    • CFD forwards
    • TradingView

      Trade through the world-famous supercharts with great pricing

    • MetaTrader 5

      Explore the apex in trading automation with our execution tech

    • The Pepperstone platform
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    • CopyTrading
    • cTrader
    • Trading tools
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      Latest news and analysis from our experts

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      Your regular round-up of key events

    • Who we are

      Pepperstone was born from the dream of making trading better

    • Company news
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Beginner

Algorithmic Trading

Algorithmic trading, or ‘algo trading,’ involves using automated, pre-programmed trading instructions to buy or sell assets based on variables like time, price, and volume.

Algorithmic Trading

Algorithmic trading meaning

Algorithmic trading algorithms allow trades to be executed at high speeds with efficiency and precision, which is particularly useful in fast-moving markets such as stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrency.

Key Elements / Features

  • Automated Systems: Algorithmic trading uses software to automate the entire trading process, reducing the need for manual intervention.
  • Execution Speed: Algorithms can execute orders at an impossible speed and frequency for human traders, capitalising on market opportunities in milliseconds.
  • Elimination of human emotions: By relying on pre-set rules, algorithmic trading removes the influence of human emotions, leading to more objective decision-making.
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Algorithms analyse vast amounts of data to make real-time trading decisions based on pre-set rules.

Benefits

Algorithmic trading offers several advantages, including increased efficiency and reduced human error. It also allows high scalability and larger volumes of orders, as algorithms can monitor multiple markets and execute trades across many assets.

Risks

Despite its powerful benefits, algorithmic trading comes with potential risks, such as over-reliance on technology, vulnerability to market volatility and possible system glitches that could disrupt trading operations.

Example(s)

An example of algorithmic trading is high-frequency trading (HFT), where algorithms place numerous small trades quickly to capitalise on small price movements and discrepancies. Another example is arbitrage strategies, where algorithms exploit price differences for the same asset across different markets to generate profit.


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The material provided here has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Whilst it is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research we will not seek to take any advantage before providing it to our clients.

Pepperstone doesn’t represent that the material provided here is accurate, current or complete, and therefore shouldn’t be relied upon as such. The information, whether from a third party or not, isn’t to be considered as a recommendation; or an offer to buy or sell; or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any security, financial product or instrument; or to participate in any particular trading strategy. It does not take into account readers’ financial situation or investment objectives. We advise any readers of this content to seek their own.

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Risk Warning:

Margin trading products are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 84% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading on margin with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how margin trading works and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. You don't own or have rights in the underlying assets. Past performance is no indication of future performance and tax laws are subject to change. The information on this website is general in nature and doesn't take into account your personal objectives, financial circumstances, or needs. Please read our PSF, RDN and other legal documents and ensure you fully understand the risks before you make any trading decisions. We encourage you to seek independent advice.

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