What is a trading system?
A trading system is a computer program used by traders to objectively enter and exit the futures markets based on parameters that have been determined by historical testing on quantifiable data. Systems are run on computers or servers and linked directly to the exchange for trading.
Why should I trade a system?
Trading the futures markets using a trading system provides the discipline to overcome the fear and greed that in many cases paralyzes a trader and prevents them from making timely and unbiased decisions. Each order placed is governed by a pre-determined set of rules that does not deviate based on anything other than the market action.
What should I consider when choosing a automated futures trading systems?
Like all kinds of tools, trading systems if not used properly, can be dangerous to the trader’s economic health. The trader should evaluate tolerance to high-risk futures trading, risk capital and the ability to withstand equity draw-down as well as the cost in terms of both time and money to trade in the futures markets.
How do I know if the system is any good?
One of the key elements of a trading system is the ability for a trading system to hold up over time. We encourage clients to take their time and study the results before you open a trading account. Of course, the only true test of a system is to see how it performs in actual trading where market slippage and trading cost are a part of the record.
How much money do I need?
The minimum deposit to open an automated system trading account is $5,000 and varies by the system chosen. In addition, the prospective trader should only consider opening a futures account when the trader has sufficient risk capital, due to the leverage in futures trading.
How do I get started?
The first step is to talk to a broker at ApexFutures in order to understand the risk as well as the rewards of futures trading using an automated trading system. If you are comfortable with the program then the next step is to open a trading account and select the trading system(s) that best fit your personal risk tolerances and trading objectives. The group executing the systems is not permitted to trade futures, so our focus is always on providing the trader the very best service.
What are the Risks?
Any one system may be subject to market specific, system specific, or complex specific risk ranging from $500 to $5 million. By trading multiple systems across different markets, one may reduce market specific and complex specific risk. By trading systems with different entry and exit strategies, the trader may reduce system specific risk. However, the risk of trading can be substantial and each investor and/or trader must consider whether this is a suitable investment. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
Disclaimer The risk of trading can be substantial and each investor and/or trader must consider whether this is a suitable investment. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
Futures Trading Disclaimer: Transactions in securities futures, commodity and index futures and options on futures carry a high degree of risk. The amount of initial margin is small relative to the value of the futures contract, meaning that transactions are heavily “leveraged”. A relatively small market movement will have a proportionately larger impact on the funds you have deposited or will have to deposit: this may work against you as well as for you. You may sustain a total loss of initial margin funds and any additional funds deposited with the clearing firm to maintain your position. If the market moves against your position or margin levels are increased, you may be called upon to pay substantial additional funds on short notice to maintain your position. If you fail to comply with a request for additional funds within the time prescribed, your position may be liquidated at a loss and you will be liable for any resulting deficit.
*Low margins are a double edged sword, as lower margins mean you have higher leverage and therefore higher risk. All commissions quoted are not inclusive of any fees, unless otherwise noted. Apex does not charge for futures data, the CME charges $2-12 per month depending on the type of data you require. ApexPro is $49 per month.
ApexFutures, 311 South Wacker Drive Chicago, Suite 2280, Illinois 60606