Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (2024)

The speed and accuracy of an algorithmic trading system is beyond human. It draws the decisive line between a good trade and a bad trade.

Moneycontrol Contributor

August 10, 2019 / 12:09 PM IST

Hrishabh Sanghvi

There are several reasons why algorithmic trading is better than manual trading. It performs the complex calculations, it does not miss out on trading opportunities, and it faces no emotional conflicts that arise when you’re making trading decisions.

But none of those reasons is as convincing to me as this one: good execution. The speed and accuracy of an algorithmic-trading system are beyond human. It draws the decisive line between a good trade and a bad trade.

To illustrate this, let’s take the trade setup for scalping as an example:

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (4)

Buy Trigger – Note the High when Parabolic SAR (0.02,0.2) < Low AND Open equals Low
Buy – Current High > Noted High
Sell Trigger – Note the Low when Parabolic SAR (0.02,0.2) > High AND Open equals High
Sell – Current Low < Noted Low

Like any good trader, let’s also add a stop loss and a profit target. Now when using it for scalping crude oil, you’ll notice that it’s a profitable trading strategy!

It earns you a few points every day, and in some time, your equity and drawdown curves look like this:

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (5)

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (6)

Optimising the profit target to one that suits this strategy, your CAGR increases to 29.44 percent.

Now, we know that scalping requires perfect timing. The strategy is to steadily hit only a few good points per day and earn well over the years. But if there’s going to be some delay in trade timing—leading to 0.01 percent slippage in this example—the profitability of every trade gets affected.

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (7)

Add a slippage of 0.02 percent instead and the equity curve flips perfectly, turning one of the best strategies you’ve seen into a horror that you cannot ignore.

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (8)

So, I repeat. The speed and accuracy of a trading algorithm is beyond human. It draws the decisive line between a good trade and a bad trade; a good strategy and a bad strategy.

Think about this when you come up with your next trading idea.

Time to start using execution algorithms!

(The author is Founder of Arque.Tech.Follow him on @hrishabhsangvhi.)

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on moneycontrol.com are his own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (9)

Moneycontrol Contributor

first published: Aug 10, 2019 08:47 am

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Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits (2024)

FAQs

Why algorithmic trading scores over manual trading in boosting profits? ›

Speed and Efficiency: Algorithms can execute trades at a much faster pace than manual trading, allowing for quick response to market conditions and opportunities. Reduced Emotional Bias: Algorithmic trading eliminates emotional decision-making, as trades are based on predetermined rules.

How is algo trading better than manual trading? ›

Successful automated traders consistently test, optimise and develop their systems slowly. In this situation, the trader doesn't need to be there to find the trade or execute the trade. They can spend more time optimising their trading systems and building more.

Is algorithmic trading more profitable? ›

Yes, it is possible to make money with algorithmic trading. Algorithmic trading can provide a more systematic and disciplined approach to trading, which can help traders to identify and execute trades more efficiently than a human trader could.

What are the advantages of algorithmic trading? ›

Some benefits of Algo-trading

1- Traders are given the best possible prices. 3- To avoid significant price changes, trades are timed correctly and instantly. 4- Reduced the chance of errors based on emotional and psychological factors by human traders. 5- Lower transaction costs.

Does algorithmic trading beat the market? ›

Algorithmic trading can beat the market if traders follow a strict trading discipline. They need to perform efficient money management and understand the basics to take advantage of algo trading.

What is the difference between algorithmic trading and traditional trading? ›

Algorithmic trading typically requires programming knowledge, while traditional trading relies more on market analysis and decision-making skills. 4. Market Volatility: Consider how each trading method performs during different market conditions.

Which strategy is profitable for algo trading? ›

Weighted Average Price Strategy: By far one of the best algorithmic trading strategies. It is either based on volume or time. Small chunks of large volume holding are released either based on historical volume profiles of the asset or set the time between start and end time.

What are the most successful trading algorithms? ›

Top Algorithmic Trading Strategies
  • Momentum. Momentum trading is a classic day-trading strategy that has been delivering results for more than 80 years. ...
  • Trend Following. ...
  • Risk-On/ Risk-Off. ...
  • Inverse Volatility. ...
  • Black Swan Catchers. ...
  • Index Fund Rebalancing. ...
  • Mean Reversion. ...
  • Market Timing.
Dec 7, 2022

What is the most profitable trading system? ›

Profit Parabolic” trading strategy based on a Moving Average. The strategy is referred to as a universal one, and it is often recommended as the best Forex strategy for consistent profits. It employs the standard MT4 indicators, EMAs (exponential moving averages), and Parabolic SAR that serves as a confirmation tool.

What percentage of stock trading is done by algorithms? ›

Algorithmic trading, which relies heavily on programmed instructions, already dominates global markets. It accounts for 60%-73% of equities trading on U.S. markets, 60% in Europe and 45% in the Asia Pacific, according to Select USA.

What are effective algorithmic trading strategies? ›

Any good strategy for algorithm trading must aim to improve trading revenues and cut costs of trading. The most popular strategies are arbitrage, index fund rebalancing, mean reversion, and market timing. Other strategies are scalping, transaction cost reduction, and pairs trading.

What are the real effects of algorithmic trading? ›

While it provides advantages, such as faster execution time and reduced costs, algorithmic trading can also exacerbate the market's negative tendencies by causing flash crashes and immediate loss of liquidity.

How accurate are trading algorithms? ›

Yes, algorithmic trading does work. If you have a robust trading strategy that has been vetted through rigorous robustness testing, you have a great chance of making money. In fact, for most traders, algorithmic trading works better than discretionary trading since the rules are quantifiable and retestable.

Which trading strategy is more accurate? ›

Trend trading strategy. This strategy describes when a trader uses technical analysis to define a trend, and only enters trades in the direction of the pre-determined trend. The above is a famous trading motto and one of the most accurate in the markets.

What are the negatives of algorithmic trading? ›

System Failures and Technical Risks: Algorithmic trading relies on stable and reliable technology infrastructure. System failures, software bugs, or connectivity issues can lead to unintended consequences, including significant losses.

Will algo trading replace traders? ›

While small traders are worried that algo trading will leave them behind or put their businesses at risk, the fact is it can benefit them, as algo trades increase liquidity in the market and, thereby, simplifies the entry and exit process.

Is automated trading better? ›

While manual trading involves rational human decision-making, automated trading is free from emotional bias. If you are a trader who wants to monitor the market yourself, manual trading is more suitable. Whereas, if you do not want to spend too much time on the same, automated trading is just the thing!

What is the success ratio of algo trading? ›

With a predefined trading approach, you can reduce errors and expect higher returns. In volatile market situations, algorithms help better price discovery. Today 80-85% of trades in developed markets are achieved using Algo strategies. However, in India, penetration is still at a lower level, at 50 to 55%.

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