The Race for Speed: Alor vs. Tinkoff in API Performance
September 3, 2024, 10:30 am
In the fast-paced world of algorithmic trading, speed is king. Traders and developers alike know that milliseconds can mean the difference between profit and loss. A recent study comparing the API speeds of two prominent brokers, Alor and Tinkoff, sheds light on this critical aspect of trading. The findings reveal a stark contrast in performance, emphasizing the importance of speed in trading strategies.
The study was meticulously designed to measure the speed of data updates from both brokers. Using open API protocols, the researcher created clients that connected to the brokers' servers. They subscribed to market depth updates and recorded the time taken for each update. This 30-second observation window provided a snapshot of performance, yielding significant insights.
The results were telling. Alor delivered a staggering 176 updates during the observation period, while Tinkoff lagged behind with only 72 updates. This translates to an average update speed of 5.78 updates per second for Alor, compared to Tinkoff's 2.37 updates per second. In relative terms, Alor's API was 2.44 times faster than Tinkoff's.
Why does this matter? For high-frequency traders, speed is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. The ability to react swiftly to market movements can enhance decision-making, improve entry and exit timing, and facilitate the execution of large orders. In a world where every second counts, Alor's superior speed could provide a competitive edge.
The study also highlighted the stability of both APIs. While Alor consistently outperformed Tinkoff, both brokers exhibited minimal discrepancies between average and current speeds. This stability is crucial for traders who rely on consistent data feeds to inform their strategies.
Comparing these APIs to traditional trading terminals, such as QUIK or MetaTrader, reveals a significant gap. Traditional systems often introduce layers of data processing that slow down information flow. In contrast, direct API connections offer a streamlined approach, maximizing efficiency and speed.
The research underscores the importance of open APIs in the financial sector. Both Alor and Tinkoff are pioneers in this area, contributing to the development of open-source solutions that enhance transparency and accessibility for traders and developers. The open-source nature of the study allows others to verify methodologies, replicate tests, and even expand research to other brokers.
However, speed alone does not guarantee trading success. A trader's strategy and execution skills are paramount. The findings serve as a reminder that while technology can enhance trading capabilities, it is the trader's acumen that ultimately drives results.
In conclusion, the choice of broker should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. For traders prioritizing speed, Alor's API emerges as a clear winner. Yet, this study represents a snapshot in time. Further testing across different market conditions and instruments is essential for a complete understanding of API performance.
As the financial landscape evolves, the role of open APIs will continue to grow. They foster innovation and empower traders to build more effective and transparent trading systems. In this race for speed, those who adapt and leverage technology will find themselves ahead of the curve.
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** The Evolution of DevRel: A Community in Motion**
**** The Developer Relations (DevRel) community in St. Petersburg has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. What began as informal gatherings has blossomed into a vibrant network of professionals sharing knowledge and experiences. The recent DevRel meetups highlight this evolution, showcasing the community's growth and adaptability.
The first DevRel breakfast took place on December 12, 2019. It was a simple affair, devoid of formalities. Participants exchanged ideas, recommendations, and even job leads. The pandemic shifted dynamics, but the community persevered. After lockdowns, the St. Petersburg group welcomed attendees from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, and Kazan, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
As the community matured, the desire to share knowledge on a larger scale emerged. In September 2022, the first formal meetup took place at Failover Bar. This marked a turning point, as the group began to embrace structured presentations. The DevRel Conf followed in November 2022, further solidifying the community's commitment to sharing insights.
The format of these meetups is designed for engagement. Each presentation lasts no more than 20 minutes, followed by a 15-minute discussion. This structure encourages interaction and ensures that participants leave with valuable takeaways. The community remains open, welcoming developers, PR professionals, and even industry stars.
However, not every meetup has gone smoothly. The first video recordings from September 2022 were marred by poor audio and visual quality. Yet, this experience became a learning opportunity. The community adapted, embracing live broadcasts and candid discussions, allowing for a more authentic exchange of ideas.
The lineup of speakers reflects the diversity of the community. Topics range from the role of DevRel in companies to practical tools for effective communication. Each session aims to provide actionable insights, drawing from real-world experiences. The focus on personal stories and completed projects fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared learning.
The upcoming DevRel meetup on September 17 promises to explore innovative formats beyond traditional presentations. Round tables, discussions, and interactive sessions will encourage collaboration and creativity. This adaptability is a hallmark of the community, ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
In summary, the St. Petersburg DevRel community exemplifies the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing. From humble beginnings to a thriving network, it has embraced change and innovation. As the community continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of developer relations. The journey is ongoing, and the possibilities are limitless.
The study was meticulously designed to measure the speed of data updates from both brokers. Using open API protocols, the researcher created clients that connected to the brokers' servers. They subscribed to market depth updates and recorded the time taken for each update. This 30-second observation window provided a snapshot of performance, yielding significant insights.
The results were telling. Alor delivered a staggering 176 updates during the observation period, while Tinkoff lagged behind with only 72 updates. This translates to an average update speed of 5.78 updates per second for Alor, compared to Tinkoff's 2.37 updates per second. In relative terms, Alor's API was 2.44 times faster than Tinkoff's.
Why does this matter? For high-frequency traders, speed is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. The ability to react swiftly to market movements can enhance decision-making, improve entry and exit timing, and facilitate the execution of large orders. In a world where every second counts, Alor's superior speed could provide a competitive edge.
The study also highlighted the stability of both APIs. While Alor consistently outperformed Tinkoff, both brokers exhibited minimal discrepancies between average and current speeds. This stability is crucial for traders who rely on consistent data feeds to inform their strategies.
Comparing these APIs to traditional trading terminals, such as QUIK or MetaTrader, reveals a significant gap. Traditional systems often introduce layers of data processing that slow down information flow. In contrast, direct API connections offer a streamlined approach, maximizing efficiency and speed.
The research underscores the importance of open APIs in the financial sector. Both Alor and Tinkoff are pioneers in this area, contributing to the development of open-source solutions that enhance transparency and accessibility for traders and developers. The open-source nature of the study allows others to verify methodologies, replicate tests, and even expand research to other brokers.
However, speed alone does not guarantee trading success. A trader's strategy and execution skills are paramount. The findings serve as a reminder that while technology can enhance trading capabilities, it is the trader's acumen that ultimately drives results.
In conclusion, the choice of broker should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. For traders prioritizing speed, Alor's API emerges as a clear winner. Yet, this study represents a snapshot in time. Further testing across different market conditions and instruments is essential for a complete understanding of API performance.
As the financial landscape evolves, the role of open APIs will continue to grow. They foster innovation and empower traders to build more effective and transparent trading systems. In this race for speed, those who adapt and leverage technology will find themselves ahead of the curve.
---
** The Evolution of DevRel: A Community in Motion**
**** The Developer Relations (DevRel) community in St. Petersburg has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. What began as informal gatherings has blossomed into a vibrant network of professionals sharing knowledge and experiences. The recent DevRel meetups highlight this evolution, showcasing the community's growth and adaptability.
The first DevRel breakfast took place on December 12, 2019. It was a simple affair, devoid of formalities. Participants exchanged ideas, recommendations, and even job leads. The pandemic shifted dynamics, but the community persevered. After lockdowns, the St. Petersburg group welcomed attendees from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, and Kazan, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
As the community matured, the desire to share knowledge on a larger scale emerged. In September 2022, the first formal meetup took place at Failover Bar. This marked a turning point, as the group began to embrace structured presentations. The DevRel Conf followed in November 2022, further solidifying the community's commitment to sharing insights.
The format of these meetups is designed for engagement. Each presentation lasts no more than 20 minutes, followed by a 15-minute discussion. This structure encourages interaction and ensures that participants leave with valuable takeaways. The community remains open, welcoming developers, PR professionals, and even industry stars.
However, not every meetup has gone smoothly. The first video recordings from September 2022 were marred by poor audio and visual quality. Yet, this experience became a learning opportunity. The community adapted, embracing live broadcasts and candid discussions, allowing for a more authentic exchange of ideas.
The lineup of speakers reflects the diversity of the community. Topics range from the role of DevRel in companies to practical tools for effective communication. Each session aims to provide actionable insights, drawing from real-world experiences. The focus on personal stories and completed projects fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared learning.
The upcoming DevRel meetup on September 17 promises to explore innovative formats beyond traditional presentations. Round tables, discussions, and interactive sessions will encourage collaboration and creativity. This adaptability is a hallmark of the community, ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
In summary, the St. Petersburg DevRel community exemplifies the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing. From humble beginnings to a thriving network, it has embraced change and innovation. As the community continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of developer relations. The journey is ongoing, and the possibilities are limitless.