Trading API

Definition ∞ A Trading API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of protocols and tools that allows software applications to communicate with a trading platform or exchange. It enables automated trading strategies, algorithmic execution, and direct data access without manual user intervention. Developers utilize APIs to build custom trading bots, portfolio management tools, and analytical dashboards. It facilitates programmatic interaction with financial markets.
Context ∞ In the digital asset space, trading APIs are fundamental for institutional investors, quantitative traders, and developers building advanced crypto applications. News often covers updates to exchange APIs, new features, or security enhancements designed to support high-frequency trading and complex strategies. Discussions frequently focus on the reliability, latency, and rate limits of various APIs, which are critical for competitive trading. The quality of a trading API can significantly influence a platform’s appeal to sophisticated market participants.