Good point, code should work the way that it is supposed to but ultimately any code will have flaws because it is written by human beings. So in one aspect we should strive to write the best code that we can but alternatively we can also profit from implicit mispricing based on the false assumption that more automation is inherently safe.
Nice post. Code rot prevails in the marketplace. If you're making enough money to justify widespread automation, then you're making enough to hire some thought.
Yes I totally agree...there is a definite balance between automation and thought. In fact with markets, the two are diametrically opposed. Automation is meant to handle processes that are static and repetitive but the price discovery process is mostly dynamic and constantly changing. Until computers can be programmed to understand the word "silly", fully automated investing will continue to remain elusive.
Its been fascinating helping out in the growing world of fantasy sports...so many parallels to trading and investing. Let me know if anyone is interested in a collaboration to develop any customized analytics or automated backtesting.