Algorithmic trading, or automated trading, uses computer algorithms to execute trades in financial markets. This approach has been gaining popularity among traders over the past few years due to its efficiency and precision in managing trades quickly. In Singapore, algorithmic trading has taken the market by storm, with more and more traders utilising this technology to maximise their profits. However, not all traders are familiar with algorithmic trading and how it works. This article will discuss how traders can use automation in modern markets with algorithmic trading in Singapore.
High-frequency trading
High-frequency trading (HFT) is an algorithmic strategy that uses powerful computers and complex algorithms to analyse and execute trades at high speeds. This method relies on speed and precision, with trades executed in milliseconds. HFT traders take advantage of minor price discrepancies between different markets and securities by buying and selling large volumes of shares quickly.
HFT has gained significant popularity in Singapore due to its ability to reduce transaction costs, increase liquidity, and provide better price discovery. With the growing competition and advancements in technology, HFT has become more accessible to retail traders as well. This method requires significant capital and specialised equipment, making it more suitable for institutional investors or high-net-worth individuals.
CFD trading in Singapore has also been impacted by HFT, using algorithms to analyse and execute trades at high speeds. This method is known for its ability to exploit market inefficiencies and generate profits in a short period. However, HFT has also been controversial, with some arguing that it can increase market volatility and pose potential risks to the financial system.
Statistical arbitrage
Statistical arbitrage is an algorithmic trading strategy that exploits pricing inefficiencies in the market. Traders using this method look for statistically undervalued or overvalued securities compared to their historical prices. Once identified, they execute trades quickly to exploit these short-term price discrepancies.
In Singapore, traders use statistical arbitrage to trade in various financial instruments such as stocks, futures, and options. This method is popular among traders as it minimises their risks by balancing long and short positions in the market. This strategy also allows traders to profit from volatile or stable markets.
It is essential to note that this method requires extensive historical data analysis and advanced mathematical models to identify profitable opportunities. Traders using statistical arbitrage must also constantly monitor the market for changes in pricing patterns to adjust their algorithm’s parameters.
Trend-following
Trend-following is an algorithmic trading strategy that follows trends based on technical indicators and market trends. Traders use this method to identify long-term price trends and ride the momentum until it reverses.
In Singapore, trend-following is popular among traders as it requires minimal time and effort to execute trades. This method also allows traders to diversify their portfolios by simultaneously trading in different markets and securities.
To implement this strategy, traders use technical indicators such as moving averages, relative strength index (RSI), and Bollinger bands to identify trends. They then use these indicators to generate buy or sell signals for their algorithm to execute trades.
Traders must be cautious when using trend-following as it can result in significant losses if the market changes direction suddenly. Risk management is crucial for any trading strategy to minimise potential losses.
Mean reversion
Mean reversion is an algorithmic trading strategy that exploits the short-term price fluctuations of securities. Traders using this method believe that security prices tend to revert to their historical averages after deviating from them, making it a profitable opportunity.
In Singapore, traders use mean reversion to trade in financial instruments such as stocks, currencies, and commodities. This method requires constant monitoring of the market for overbought or oversold conditions.
Traders use technical indicators such as stochastic oscillators, MACD (moving average convergence/divergence), and Bollinger bands to identify potential mean reversion opportunities. Once identified, they execute trades based on their algorithm’s parameters, targeting profits from the security’s return to its average price.
Market-making
Market-making is an algorithmic trading strategy where traders continuously buy and sell securities to provide liquidity in the market. This method relies on high-speed algorithms to adjust bids and offers quickly based on market demand.
In Singapore, market-makers are crucial for maintaining liquidity in financial markets such as stocks, options, futures, and currencies. By providing liquidity, market-making reduces bid-ask spreads and transaction costs, benefiting traders and investors.
This method is popular among high-frequency traders because they can execute trades quickly and efficiently. However, market-making requires significant capital and advanced technology, making it more suitable for institutional investors or large financial firms.
Pair trading
Pair trading is an algorithmic strategy that involves buying and selling two highly correlated securities simultaneously. Traders using this method believe that the price relationship between these securities will eventually return to its mean.
In Singapore, traders use pair trading in various financial instruments such as stocks, commodities, and currencies. This method is popular among traders as it reduces risks by balancing long and short positions in the market.
To implement this strategy, traders must identify highly correlated securities and constantly monitor their price relationship. Technical indicators such as correlation coefficient and beta values are used to determine the strength of the relationship between two securities.
