Brokers With APIs
Brokers with APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are becoming increasingly popular with investors interested in automated trading and advanced strategies. APIs work alongside trading platforms to bring a new level of software advancement to retail investing.
This guide covers the basics of API trading, plus the advantages and disadvantages of using this type of software. Read on for a review of the best API brokers in 2025, alongside the key factors to consider when choosing a provider.
Brokers With API Access
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When we evaluated Pepperstone's FIX and cTrader Open API in trading simulations, execution latency consistently remained at around 30 ms, even during volatility peaks. Razor account spreads started at 0.0 pips, plus approximately $7 per lot, keeping trading costs minimal. Deep ECN liquidity and Smart Trader tools improved order execution, making it perfect for algorithmic traders.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto (only Pro clients), Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) -
FxPro’s FIX and cTrader APIs ensure rapid order execution, averaging 11–14 ms even during high volatility. Over 80% of orders achieve mid-price, reducing slippage. Spreads on cTrader begin at 0.3 pips, with co‑located VPS hosting at LD4 London decreasing latency, perfect for algorithmic strategies.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Spread Betting FCA, CySEC, FSCA, SCB, FSA FxPro Edge, MT4, MT5, cTrader, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $100 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) -
IG’s REST API delivered dependable order execution with moderate delays during our tests, making it suitable for automated strategies but not for ultra-low-latency requirements. The API provides advanced market data and order types, with competitive spreads, particularly on major indices and forex pairs.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM Web, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, ProRealTime Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) -
FOREX.com's REST API proved dependable for automation, offering average execution speeds near 20 ms, with most trades executed in under a second, perfect for algorithmic strategies. Raw-pricing accounts had spreads dropping to about 0.2 pips, with a $7 commission per 100k. Lightstreamer streaming support works but is less refined than competitor endpoints.
Instruments Regulator Platforms Forex, CFDs, Stock CFDs, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto NFA, CFTC, CIRO, FCA, CYSEC, ASIC, SFC, FSA, MAS, CIMA WebTrader, Mobile, MT4, MT5, TradingView Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $100 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In testing, BlackBull Markets' FIX API showed outstanding performance with execution speeds averaging below 75 milliseconds, outperforming the industry standard of 130 milliseconds. Their ECN infrastructure utilises the NY4 Equinix data centre, ensuring extensive liquidity and tight spreads starting at 0.0 pips plus a $2 commission per lot. This is beneficial for algorithmic traders and high-frequency strategies.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Crypto FMA, FSA BlackBull Invest, BlackBull CopyTrader, MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:500 -
In our tests, City Index's API provided smooth algorithm execution through its native endpoint, but direct FIX access is not offered. Order fills on major FX pairs took around 80 ms, and the usual EUR/USD spread was about 0.8 pips, maintaining consistency due to substantial institutional liquidity. Complex strategies required MT4 for integration.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Futures, Options, Bonds, Interest Rates,ETFs,Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, MAS Web Trader, MT4, TradingView, TradingCentral Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
Testing showed BitMEX's FIX API adds latency, acting as a layer over the REST API. Although the WebSocket API provides real-time data efficiently, it sometimes falters during high volatility, hinting at possible overloads. To achieve optimal performance, position your server in AWS EU-West-1, aligning with BitMEX's server location for the quickest connection.
Instruments Regulator Platforms Crypto Republic of Seychelles BitMEX Web Platform, AlgoTrader, TradingView, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0.01 Variable
Pepperstone
FXPro
IG Index
Forex.com
BlackBull Markets
City Index
BitMEXSafety Comparison
Compare how safe the Brokers With APIs are and what features they offer to protect traders.
| Broker | Trust Rating | FCA Regulated | Negative Balance Protection | Guaranteed Stop Loss | Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| FXPro | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| IG Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Forex.com | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | |
| BlackBull Markets | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| City Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| BitMEX | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
Payments Comparison
Compare which popular payment methods the Brokers With APIs support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).
| Broker | GBP Account | Debit Card | Credit Card | Neteller | Skrill | Apple Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| FXPro | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Forex.com | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| BlackBull Markets | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| City Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| BitMEX | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
Mobile Trading Comparison
How good are the Brokers With APIs at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.
| Broker | Mobile Apps | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| FXPro | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| IG Index | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| Forex.com | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| BlackBull Markets | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| City Index | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| BitMEX | iOS & Android | ✘ |
Beginners Comparison
Are the Brokers With APIs good for beginner traders, that might want an affordable setup to get started, along with good support and educational resources?
| Broker | Demo Account | Minimum Deposit | Minimum Trade | Support Rating | Education Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| FXPro | ✔ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| IG Index | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Forex.com | ✔ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| BlackBull Markets | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| City Index | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| BitMEX | ✔ | $0.01 | Variable |
Advanced Trading Comparison
Do the Brokers With APIs offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?
| Broker | Automated Trading | Pro Account | Leverage | VPS | AI | Low Latency | Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| FXPro | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cBots on cTrader | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| IG Index | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, build your own on ProRealTime | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Forex.com | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✘ | 1:30 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| BlackBull Markets | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, cTrader Automate | ✘ | 1:500 | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| City Index | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| BitMEX | BitMEX Market Maker, BotVS, and via API | ✘ | - | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
Detailed Rating Comparison
Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Brokers With APIs.
| Broker | Trust | Platforms | Mobile | Assets | Fees | Accounts | Support | Research | Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | |||||||||
| FXPro | |||||||||
| IG Index | |||||||||
| Forex.com | |||||||||
| BlackBull Markets | |||||||||
| City Index | |||||||||
| BitMEX |
Our Take On Pepperstone
"Pepperstone is a premier trading platform, providing tight spreads, swift execution, and sophisticated charting tools for seasoned traders. Beginners benefit from no minimum deposit, comprehensive learning materials, and outstanding 24/7 support."
Tobias Robinson
Reviewer
Pros
- Pepperstone offers rapid execution speeds of approximately 30ms, enabling swift order processing and execution, making it ideal for traders.
- Pepperstone now offers spread betting via TradingView, delivering a streamlined and tax-efficient trading experience with sophisticated analytical tools.
- Over the years, Pepperstone has consistently garnered recognition from DayTrading.com’s annual awards. Recently, it was honoured as the 'Best Overall Broker' in 2025 and was the 'Best Forex Broker' runner-up the same year.
Cons
- Pepperstone doesn't offer cTrader Copy, a favoured feature for copying trades found in the cTrader platform, which is available on other platforms such as IC Markets. However, Pepperstone has launched its own user-friendly copy trading app.
- Pepperstone's demo accounts expire after 30 days, which may not provide sufficient time to explore various platforms and evaluate trading strategies.
- Although its market range has improved, its crypto offerings remain limited compared to brokers specialising in this sector, lacking real coin investment options.
Our Take On FXPro
"FxPro is an excellent choice for traders, offering swift execution speeds under 12ms, reduced fees since 2022, and outstanding charting platforms like MT4, MT5, cTrader, and FxPro Edge."
Pros
- FxPro's Wallet is a notable feature enabling traders to securely manage their funds. It ensures additional protection and ease by separating unused funds from active trading accounts.
- FxPro uses a 'No Dealing Desk' (NDD) model for swift and transparent order execution, usually within 12 milliseconds, making it well-suited for short-term trading strategies.
- FxPro provides four dependable charting platforms, including the user-friendly FxPro Edge. It features more than 50 indicators, 7 types of charts, and 15 different timeframes.
Cons
- FxPro, with its $10M funded demo account and expanding Knowledge Hub, mainly caters to experienced traders. Beginners might find its account and fee structure challenging to understand.
- FxPro offers customer support five days a week around the clock, accessible via various platforms, and the service quality is reliable based on tests. However, the absence of weekend support can be a drawback for traders requiring help beyond standard market times.
- There are no passive investment options such as copy trading or interest on cash. While traders might not find these essential, competitors like eToro, which accommodate both active and passive investors, offer more extensive services.
Our Take On IG Index
"IG offers a complete package with an intuitive online platform, top-tier beginner education, advanced charting tools through its TradingView integration, real-time data, and swift execution for seasoned traders."
Pros
- As a seasoned broker, IG adheres to stringent regulatory standards across various regions, ensuring significant trust.
- The IG app provides an excellent mobile trading experience with an intuitive design, earning it the Runner Up position in our 'Best Trading App' award.
- The web-based platform supports traders at every level, offering advanced charting tools and real-time market data vital for trading. Additionally, IG now includes TradingView integration.
Cons
- Based on tests, stock and CFD spreads remain less competitive than the lowest-cost brokers, such as CMC Markets.
- In the UK and EU, negative balance protection is available. However, US clients lack account protection and guaranteed stop losses.
- IG has ended its swap-free account, diminishing its attractiveness to Islamic traders.
Our Take On Forex.com
"FOREX.com excels in serving traders of all levels, offering more than 80 currency pairs, spreads starting at 0.0 pips, and competitive commissions. Its robust charting platforms provide over 100 technical indicators and comprehensive research tools."
Pros
- The in-house Web Trader remains a standout platform, excellently crafted for budding traders. It features a sleek design and offers more than 80 technical indicators for thorough market analysis.
- An abundance of educational resources is available, such as tutorials, webinars, and an extensive YouTube channel, designed to enhance your understanding of financial markets.
- FOREX.com provides top-tier forex rates beginning at 0.0 pips, along with attractive cashback rebates up to 15% for dedicated traders.
Cons
- Funding choices are restricted when compared to top options such as IC Markets. Many popular e-wallets, including UnionPay and POLi, are noticeably absent.
- Although FOREX.com has expanded its range of instruments, its product offering is confined to forex and CFDs. Consequently, there are no investment options for actual stocks, ETFs, or cryptocurrencies.
- FOREX.com's MT4 platform provides around 600 instruments, a notable reduction compared to the more than 5,500 options on its other platforms.
Our Take On BlackBull Markets
"Following the upgrade to Equinix servers in New York, London, and Tokyo, BlackBull has reduced latency, making it a clear choice for stock CFD trading using ECN pricing."
Pros
- BlackBulls's research excels, particularly in the daily 'Trading Opportunities' articles. These publications simplify complex market dynamics into clear insights, enabling traders to effectively capitalise on emerging trends.
- After collaborating with ZuluTrade and Myfxbook and refining its CopyTrader, BlackBull now provides an exceptionally comprehensive trading experience.
- BlackBull provides three ECN-powered accounts—Standard, Prime, and Institutional—to cater to traders of all experience levels, from novices to seasoned professionals. The variety of account types allows for flexible options tailored to individual trading needs and available capital.
Cons
- Despite an expanding range of over 26,000 assets, including new additions to Asia Pacific indices, their offerings are primarily equities. The selection of currency pairs and indices remains average.
- Despite enhancements such as webinars and tutorials in the Education Hub, our review indicates that the courses still require greater emphasis on elucidating broader economic factors affecting prices.
- BlackBull does not offer its own trading platform, instead utilising MetaTrader, cTrader, and TradingView. Although these platforms are highly regarded, some brokers, such as eToro, provide proprietary platforms with distinct features that cater well to novice traders.
Our Take On City Index
"City Index suits active traders perfectly, offering rapid execution speeds averaging 20ms and a customisable web platform with over 90 technical indicators. Its educational resources are exceptional. For UK traders interested in spread betting on 8,500+ instruments tax-free, City Index is an excellent option."
Pros
- City Index has significantly improved the trading experience. In 2024, they introduced Performance Analytics, providing insights into trades and discipline. The revamped mobile app now includes integrated market research and swipe-access news.
- City Index is under the regulation of leading authorities, such as the FCA in the UK, ASIC in Australia, and MAS in Singapore. Its parent company, StoneX Group Inc., is publicly listed, which enhances its credibility.
- City Index offers access to over 13,500 markets, including forex, indices, shares, commodities, bonds, ETFs, and interest rates. The platform's inclusion of niche markets such as interest rates provides traders with unique opportunities not commonly available on other platforms.
Cons
- Although many brokers, such as eToro, have broadened their crypto offerings, City Index restricts its clients to crypto CFDs. This limited selection may not meet the needs of traders seeking a wider variety of altcoins.
- Unlike brokers like AvaTrade and BlackBull, City Index lacks options for passive trading, such as social copy trading or real ownership of stocks and ETFs. This limitation may reduce its appeal to traders seeking a more hands-off approach.
- City Index does not offer an Islamic account with swap-free conditions, making it less attractive to Muslim traders than brokers such as Eightcap and Pepperstone.
Our Take On BitMEX
"Traders interested in a wide selection of crypto derivatives will find BitMEX appealing, especially with its Perpetual Contracts. Additionally, the 100x leverage on Bitcoin exceeds that of many other platforms."
Pros
- The BMEX token offers up to 15% discounts on trading fees and other exclusive benefits when staked.
- The Guilds social trading platform enables traders to join competitions and earn rewards. This includes a weekly prize pool valued at 4,000 USDT as of this writing.
- Traders may accrue interest by holding Tether and Bitcoin.
Cons
- Only Bitcoin is allowed for cost-free withdrawals.
- Withdrawals are processed only at a designated time each day.
- The broker faced legal action from US regulators, resulting in fines.
What Are APIs?
An API or “Application Programming Interface” is a software solution that sends information to a brokerage platform. By linking two applications, such as a user’s trading account and the broker’s platform, the API enables the trader to interact with the investing software. APIs can also connect automated trading algorithms to a platform as a means of giving traders live data.
Prior to the rise of APIs, potential openings had to be surveyed in one application while trades were carried out with a broker in a separate terminal. Nowadays many retail brokers use APIs, which means that traders are able to screen for openings, receive live price updates and make trades all in one place.
There are several traditional stock and futures market brokerages that support API access, such as Interactive Brokers, alongside some smaller brands. However, you are most likely to find API access offered by forex brokers who have used third-party applications and systems like MetaTrader for a long time.
If you are looking for information on APIs that are specific to your broker, you should be able to view that information on their website.
Why Use APIs?
APIs allow investors to implement trading strategies that would be difficult or time-consuming to carry out manually. Trading is time-sensitive, and using an API gives the broker and investor the means to facilitate faster reactions to the market.
For example, for those looking to practice high-frequency trading (entering and exiting positions within a matter of seconds), it’s necessary to use an algorithm and advanced trading technology. The profits for this kind of trading are based on a high number of quick and successful trades being executed, which APIs can assist with.
APIs are also useful for individual traders because they enable easy access to any financial market. APIs can be used to trade almost anything, from stocks and shares to forex, commodities and cryptocurrencies, and they improve trade speeds and efficiency in general.
Two kinds of traders use broker APIs. First, there are those who develop automated trading systems themselves, and therefore need to be able to view pricing data and place trades at the same time. Second, there are traders who use third-party applications that give access to APIs, so investors can place trades and see prices in real-time.
Benefits Of APIs
- Easy to use – APIs do not necessarily require complicated coding, and are an easy way to have two platforms communicate with one another.
- Automated trading – If you are using semi or fully-automated trading systems, then APIs will allow you to connect your algorithms with the platform that your broker offers. This means that you are able to use algorithmic strategies that would take a lot of time to set up manually.
- Data consolidation – A good API is able to bring together information from many different sources and display that information in whatever manner the investor requires. This feature is difficult to replicate manually.
- Custom indicators – When using APIs, you can automate trading signals and indicators. Custom indicators can be created using coding languages that can be found online.
- Customisation – Developers can help traders to customise APIs so that they fit their specific needs better. This typically begins with an existing API that can be modified to present the specific data that the trader wants to see.
Risks Of APIs
There are several benefits of trading brokers with APIs, but there are also some downsides that should be considered:
- Fees – Although they are offered for free, traders may incur additional charges on any gains made through an API. Ensure that you are aware of the broker’s fee structure before you start using an API.
- Learning time – For those with little experience in coding, APIs might be difficult to get the hang of. Practice using a demo account before you begin trading with an API, and consult the learning materials that can be found at the top supporting brokers.
- Limits – Often brokers will set limits that dictate how often their clients can use APIs. These limits can be set by the minute or by the hour. Limits exist because the broker has to adhere to policies that prevent them from overusing their bandwidth.
- Security – Online brokers will set up passwords that allow traders to gain access to the API, but the level of security will vary from broker to broker. While it might be tempting to pick a brokerage that prioritises the speed of the API, it’s important that you also check how secure their system is.
Comparing Trading Brokers With API Access
Here are some of the essential things to keep in mind when choosing the right API broker:
Documentation
A good trading broker should provide documentation for their APIs, so developers can find out how to authenticate and see which data is going to be made available. It is important that your chosen broker explains the API thoroughly, particularly if you are a beginner. The documentation should also include examples and code samples to help you get started.
Demo Account
Your chosen broker should offer a demo account that is accessible through the API. This will allow you to test your code and your strategies without the risk involved in real trading. This also helps you to establish whether the real trading account with that broker would be a good fit for you or not.
Coding Language
If you are using your own code, it’s important to select an API that functions in a coding language that you are familiar with, and that the program you are using can understand the output data. This is going to ensure that you can make the best use of the API and receive meaningful trading data that you can understand.
Limits & Fees
Brokers with APIs tend to have limits on their API services, so before opening an account you should ensure that the minute/hourly/daily limit is high enough to meet your trading needs. Alternatively, make sure that you are willing to pay the fees associated with exceeding these limits.
Top Trading Brokers With API Access
The best API broker for you is going to depend on your specific needs and your chosen trading strategy. However, below are some of the leading brokers with APIs in the areas of regulations, fees, customer service and trading instruments.
Pepperstone
When assessed across multiple areas, Pepperstone is one of the best overall brokers for API access.
- There is no minimum deposit amount
- Customer service is available via live chat, email and phone
- Trading available in forex, indices, commodities and shares
- The platform is extensively regulated for those living in the UK
- Trading brokerage supports the use of MT4, MT5, ZuluTrade, Web Trader, Mac and mobile apps
Interactive Brokers
This review found Interactive Brokers to be one of the top-rated API providers for forex trading.
- The platform is regulated by reputable bodies in jurisdictions around the world, including the FCA
- Trading is available on forex, ETFs, stocks, bonds, options, cryptocurrencies, futures and warrants
- There is no minimum deposit required to open an account
- There are no withdrawal fees
Keep in mind that Interactive Brokers charge a fee to inactive accounts.
IG
IG is the best API broker for beginners.
- There are more than 10,000 instruments available to trade, including forex, cryptocurrencies, stocks, commodities, indices and ETFs
- The platform offered is MT4, Web Trader and a mobile app
- Highly regulated, including by the FCA
- No withdrawal fees
Note that inactivity fees will be charged if your account is inactive for 24 months.
IC Markets
IC Markets is a good all-round API broker for beginners up to seasoned traders.
- Customer support is offered 24 hours a day via phone, live chat and email
- Investing platforms offered are web, mobile and desktop trading
- Low trading fees and no withdrawal or inactivity fees
Bear in mind that the minimum deposit for IC markets is high at $200. However, the low trading fees and lack of inactivity fee somewhat compensate for this.
Bottom Line On Brokers With APIs
Trading brokers with API access offer multiple benefits, which is why many forex traders see them as a necessity for online trading. APIs provide the tools that are needed for seamless trading, but using them without any kind of coding language can be challenging. If you are new to coding, try to build a basic knowledge of how coding works before you start trading with APIs.
Use our guide to the best brokers with APIs to get started today.
FAQ
What Is An API Broker?
An API broker allows traders to integrate key trading applications, meaning that the individual can access real-time updates, historical data and automated trading strategies.
What Are The Benefits Of Using An API Broker?
The main advantage of using an API broker is that you can put trading strategies into practice that are too advanced to execute manually, for example, automated trading and high-frequency systems.
How Do I Choose An API Broker?
The key things to consider when you are choosing between brokers with APIs are the coding language, the demo account options, and the limits and fees. Once you have completed your research, test your code on a demo account to ensure that it works as required.
Does It Cost Money To Use A Trading API?
Just like with any broker, there may be various fees for joining and executing trades. However, when it comes to API brokers there may also be additional fees. Brokers with APIs often place an hourly limit on their use, and if you exceed that limit then you may incur additional fees.
What Are The Cons Of Using Trading Brokers With APIs?
Learning how to use an API can be a steep learning curve for those who don’t have prior coding experience, so it can take some time to familiarise yourself with the key requirements. Furthermore, usage limits and additional fees are enforced by some trading brokers who offer APIs.