1. Algorithm Design: Traders or investors design algorithms that specify the conditions under which they want to buy or sell a particular financial instrument. These algorithms are typically based on technical indicators, price patterns, market trends, or other quantitative criteria..
2. Market Data Analysis: The algo trading system continuously monitors real-time market data, such as stock prices, currency exchange rates, or commodity prices. It analyzes this data according to the rules set in the algorithm.
3. Signal Generation: Based on the analysis of market data, the algorithm generates trading signals. For instance, if the algorithm identifies that a stock's price has crossed above a moving average, it may generate a "buy" signal.
4. Order Placement: When a trading signal is generated, the algo trading system automatically places the corresponding buy or sell order in the market. The order includes details such as the financial instrument, quantity, and order type (e.g., market order or limit order).
5. Order Execution: Once the order is placed, it is sent to the broker or the exchange for execution. The order is executed based on the prevailing market conditions. If the order is a market order, it will be executed immediately at the best available price. If it is a limit order, it will be executed when the market price reaches the specified limit price.
6. Position Management: After the order is executed, the algo trading system updates the trader's position in the financial instrument. If it was a buy order, a new long position is established. If it was a sell order, the existing long position is reduced or closed.
7. Risk Management: Algo trading systems often incorporate risk management measures to control the size of positions and protect against excessive losses. These risk management rules are also automated and enforced by the algorithm..
8. Auto Rebalancing: In some algo trading strategies, the algorithm may automatically rebalance the portfolio based on changing market conditions or predefined rules. This involves adjusting the allocation of assets to maintain the desired risk-return profile.
