For anyone reading this thread in the future, seems like the best option is to go to IB + DAS Trader Pro if you are in Canada. Comes up to around ~150-200$ per month depending on which package you choose. There is an another option called Medved Trader that you can link to any broker for a Level 2 Data Stream but I don't think it is as developed as DAS Trader Pro yet but it might be an option for people who want something a little cheaper - it only costs 20$ per month.
Hello, I am a Canadian Trader, I use IB as my broker. I only trade US Stocks and I use IB Level 2, which costs nothing depending on how many trades you make each month, so no need to get another service for that. IB provides an excellent scanner in the software package also free. The scanner works for premarket and aftermarket also. I use Finviz Elite also for back testing and portfolio management. I use TC2000 which is an awesome tool for creating your own custom scans, excellent charts, basically everything you need to create your own edge in the markets. I treat trading as a business, and the start up costs are miniscule compared to any other business. Good luck with your trading!
Hey, glad to find another one! Are you an intraday trader or more of a swing trader? I spoke with IB customer service recently, they provide Level 2 but based on the quotes I got from them it costs around $55.5 every month for all Level 2 US data (Level 1s 4.5$, Nasdaq Total View 15$, NYSE Open Book 25$ and NYSE ARCA Book 11$). I probably wont be making enough trades initially since I am just starting out but just out of curiosity, how many shares do you need to trade per month for them to waive the Level 2 fees? I heard some people prefer TC2000 over Trade Ideas, the advantage is that TC2000 has charting as well whereas Trade Ideas has only the scanner. Never thought about FinViz Elite but will look into it. When you say portfolio management, do you mean tracking your portfolio? Can I bug you with some more questions via PM? Thanks for the reply. Cheers!
Hi, 1. I am more of an intraday trader than swing trader for now. Markets are way too volatile for holding any positions IMHO. 2. I only use level 1s, and Nasdaq Total view, don't need the NYSE quotes. Most trading these days is by hidden orders anyway, so "Reading the Tape" is somewhat obsolete. 3. Not quite sure about how many shares traded for reduced rates, it also depends on the size of your accounts. I do over 30 trades a month minimum. 4. TC 2000, IMHO is much better than trade ideas, and much more affordable. 5. Yes tracking, back testing trading strategies, and back testing algorithmic trading. Also for checking the futures markets, forex, cryptos, and world currencies, bonds, metals, etc. 6. Yes, feel free to contact me by pm. Regards.
I use TDameritrade thinkorswim mainly for US options. You need aTD broker margin account with min $5000 USD and then download TOS. Can trade options or stocks no monthly charge. $7 to buy stock and $7 for first option and $1 for each additional, so to buy 2 options $8. Has level 2 and s ton of other analysis. A great scanner , very useful for finding hot options prob same for stocks. Has a CNBC feed so can set that up in a small widget window. Great for trading any type of options, spreads, butterflies ,condors. Can view options in spread view makes it easy to pick profitable spreads. I use Medved trader for extra charting with a datafeed from stockwatch, Could do it all with TOS but need three monitors on one pc, may try some 27 inch Dual monitors just needed more screen real estate
As a Canadian i am so hurt how bad the platforms are in Canada.. IB is likely the best but it is so complicated vs TOS in the US.. I was working in the US and able to open US based platforms like Nadex and Ninja Trader and Tradovate.. fees and margins are lightning years better then what Canada offers.. If your a serious trader trading US assets.. I would highly recommend opening a US C Corp get an ITIN and open TOS US account.. fees are a fraction of Canadian versions.. even Ninja Trader for futures trading is light years better then any platform in Canada..