What's the Best Way to Learn Algorithmic Trading?

Robo-advisers were expected to manage more than $2 trillion worth of assets last year. So what powers them? Let’s talk about a few of the best ways to learn algorithmic trading.

New Resources and Updates

• HTML Compiler Now Available for HTML Projects

• JavaScript Compiler Now Available for JavaScript Projects

• New Jobs in the United States at our Job Board

• New Jobs in India at our Job Board

How to Get Started with Algo Trading

Whether you’re a seasoned financial professional or just testing the waters with a new Python project, there are many reasons to learn algorithmic trading.

Some people get started for money. Others want a challenge.

So we evaluated a bunch of the most popular resources currently available. Two stood out as especially valuable (both for different reasons).

The first one is an intensive program. It covers tactics, recent applications, and expectations for what’s next for algo traders.

The second is a book. It’s published by one of the most trusted brands in technology, and it’s valuable for those who prefer self-directed learning.

1. Oxford Algorithmic Trading Program

If you’re already working in the field of trading and investments, you’re going to want to check out the prospectus for this program. It’s designed for people who understand the industry (even though they may not have any background with algorithmic trading).

The course covers a variety of topics. You’ll learn:

• Classic and behavioral finance theory

• Systemic trading

• Technical analysis

• Future trends

The education alone seems worth it for this program, but you’ll also get an official certificate of attendance from Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.

2. Python for Algorithmic Trading (Book)

We all have different ways of learning, and many of the people who use Hackr.io prefer to learn from a book. That’s why we’re recommending this one, Python for Algorithmic Trading: From Idea to Cloud Deployment.

It’s written by Yves Hilpisch and published by O’Reilly. That name might sound familiar. They publish so many useful guides for programmers, their books make just about every “best-of” list we write.

If you’d prefer to read it with O’Reilly’s learning platform, that’s an option too.

Those with a Udemy subscription (or those who prefer that platform’s exceptional prices) have another option as well.

We found Python for Finance and Algorithmic Trading with QuantConnect, which has an hour-long Python module and a bunch of information about how to use it for finance with Pandas, Matplotlib, and the QuantConnect Lean Engine.

There are many more resources for self-directed learning as well. If you’ve had experience with one and want to recommend it, please let us know.

Recap

If you’re working on a Python project portfolio or want to build out your own trading strategy, algorithmic trading might be worth consideration. We found a few highly-rated resources, and our top choice is the program from Oxford.

Please let us know what else you’d like to hear about!