[daveyjones]

I've developed an algorithm that I've been testing with IB's demo account. I've done absolutely everything I can with the demo account, but I've come to realize that the simulated data is not very realistic at all. I need to start testing my algorithm with real data. However, the only way to get a paper trading account is to open a real account. Since I don't have $10,000 to open a real account (and I won't for a while), I seem to be a bit stuck. My plan is to have the algorithm tested and ready to go by the time I have the $10,000 saved up to open an account.

In the meantime, does anyone know how I could get access to a paper trading account without opening a real account? I know they allow students to get accounts. Is there a legitimate online trading school that doesn't cost too much that would be able to register an account for me?

[BlowFish]

What does your algorithm trade? Amp & Mirus offer demo accounts for futures that would probably fit the bill. Do you execute your algorithm manually?

[daveyjones]

Just stocks for now. The problem is that the algorithm is completely automated and set up to work with IB. I haven't found a broker that offers an API that competes with IB. (If there are legitimate competitors, please enlighten me!)

[Tams]

what's wrong with IB's demo data?

[daveyjones]

Originally Posted by Tams »

what's wrong with IB's demo data?

At first I thought it was real historical data, but that's not the case. The volatility of some of the securities is through the roof - sometimes a standard deviation of several dollars in a single day. When you review the actual history of the same security, you will find no such fluctuation.

[Tams]

The demo data is real,
it is a replay of old data.
However they don't tell you which date/time they are playing.

[Tams]

you can always open a real account with IB,
then you get to access the papertrading account.

The papertrading account streams real time data,
the same data as in your real trading account.

I believe you only need $3,500 to open an account,
plus a minimal data fee if your commission do not reach a minimum amount.

[TrueBalance]

Originally Posted by Tams »

you can always open a real account with IB,
then you get to access the papertrading account.

The papertrading account streams real time data,
the same data as in your real trading account.

I believe you only need $3,500 to open an account,
plus a minimal data fee if your commission do not reach a minimum amount.

Unless you're under 21 or live in India or it's an IRA or advisor/broker account, the minimum deposit is $10K.

Best wishes,
TB