Articles on machine learning in trading

icon

Creating AI-based trading robots: native integration with Python, matrices and vectors, math and statistics libraries and much more.

Find out how to use machine learning in trading. Neurons, perceptrons, convolutional and recurrent networks, predictive models — start with the basics and work your way up to developing your own AI. You will learn how to train and apply neural networks for algorithmic trading in financial markets.

Add a new article
latest | best
preview
Adaptive Social Behavior Optimization (ASBO): Two-phase evolution

Adaptive Social Behavior Optimization (ASBO): Two-phase evolution

We continue dwelling on the topic of social behavior of living organisms and its impact on the development of a new mathematical model - ASBO (Adaptive Social Behavior Optimization). We will dive into the two-phase evolution, test the algorithm and draw conclusions. Just as in nature a group of living organisms join their efforts to survive, ASBO uses principles of collective behavior to solve complex optimization problems.
preview
Biogeography-Based Optimization (BBO)

Biogeography-Based Optimization (BBO)

Biogeography-Based Optimization (BBO) is an elegant global optimization method inspired by natural processes of species migration between islands within archipelagos. The algorithm is based on a simple yet powerful idea: high-quality solutions actively share their characteristics, while low-quality ones actively adopt new features, creating a natural flow of information from the best solutions to the worst. A unique adaptive mutation operator provides an excellent balance between exploration and exploitation. BBO demonstrates high efficiency on a variety of tasks.
preview
Neural Networks in Trading: LSTM Optimization for Multivariate Time Series Forecasting (DA-CG-LSTM)

Neural Networks in Trading: LSTM Optimization for Multivariate Time Series Forecasting (DA-CG-LSTM)

This article introduces the DA-CG-LSTM algorithm, which offers new approaches to time series analysis and forecasting. It explains how innovative attention mechanisms and model flexibility can improve forecast accuracy.
preview
Backtracking Search Algorithm (BSA)

Backtracking Search Algorithm (BSA)

What if an optimization algorithm could remember its past journeys and use that memory to find better solutions? BSA does just that – balancing exploration with revisiting the tried and true. In this article, we reveal the secrets of the algorithm. A simple idea, minimum parameters and a stable result.
preview
Feature selection and dimensionality reduction using principal components

Feature selection and dimensionality reduction using principal components

The article delves into the implementation of a modified Forward Selection Component Analysis algorithm, drawing inspiration from the research presented in “Forward Selection Component Analysis: Algorithms and Applications” by Luca Puggini and Sean McLoone.
preview
The case for using Hospital-Performance Data with Perceptrons, this Q4, in weighing SPDR XLV's next Performance

The case for using Hospital-Performance Data with Perceptrons, this Q4, in weighing SPDR XLV's next Performance

XLV is SPDR healthcare ETF and in an age where it is common to be bombarded by a wide array of traditional news items plus social media feeds, it can be pressing to select a data set for use with a model. We try to tackle this problem for this ETF by sizing up some of its critical data sets in MQL5.
preview
MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 16): Nested CV for Unbiased Evaluation

MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 16): Nested CV for Unbiased Evaluation

The article presents a V-in-V nested cross-validation pipeline for financial data that breaks leakage at three decision points: hyperparameter search, calibration, and final evaluation. A temporal three‑zone split isolates an inner walk‑forward search with the 1‑SE rule from an outer walk‑forward or CPCV evaluation, while OOF isotonic calibration is fitted independently. The resulting UnifiedValidationCalibrator delivers unbiased out‑of‑sample scores and well‑calibrated probabilities for deployment.
preview
Community of Scientists Optimization (CoSO): Practice

Community of Scientists Optimization (CoSO): Practice

We resume the topic of optimization by the scientific community. CoSO should not be viewed as a ready-made solution, but as a promising research platform. With proper development, CoSO can find its niche in tasks where adaptability and resilience to change are important, and computation time is not critical.
preview
Neural Networks in Trading: Actor—Director—Critic (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Actor—Director—Critic (Final Part)

The Actor–Director–Critic framework is an evolution of the classic agent learning architecture. The article presents practical experience of its implementation and adaptation to financial market conditions.
preview
Developing a Neural Network Trading Robot Based on Mamba with Selective State Space Models

Developing a Neural Network Trading Robot Based on Mamba with Selective State Space Models

The article explores the revolutionary Mamba/SSM neural network architecture for financial time series forecasting. We will consider a complete MQL5 implementation of a modern alternative to Transformer with linear complexity O(N) instead of quadratic O(N²). Selective State Space Models, hardware-aware optimizations, patching techniques, and advanced AdamW training methods are covered in detail. Practical test results showing an increase in accuracy from 62% to 71% while reducing training time from 45 to 8 minutes are included. A ready-made trading EA with auto learning and adaptive risk management for MetaTrader 5 is presented.
preview
Stepwise feature selection in MQL5

Stepwise feature selection in MQL5

In this article, we introduce a modified version of stepwise feature selection, implemented in MQL5. This approach is based on the techniques outlined in Modern Data Mining Algorithms in C++ and CUDA C by Timothy Masters.
preview
Risk Manager for Trading Robots (Part I): Risk Control Include File for Expert Advisors

Risk Manager for Trading Robots (Part I): Risk Control Include File for Expert Advisors

Trading is characterized by high demands on risk management discipline. The article presents an analysis of the main reasons for traders' failures and proposes a technical solution in the form of the CEnhancedRiskManager class for the MQL5 platform. It includes practical testing on an aggressive grid EA.
preview
Quantum Neural Network in MQL5 (Part II): Training a Neural Network with Backpropagation on ALGLIB Markov Matrices

Quantum Neural Network in MQL5 (Part II): Training a Neural Network with Backpropagation on ALGLIB Markov Matrices

The article presents an innovative quantum neural network architecture for algorithmic trading that combines the principles of quantum mechanics with modern machine learning methods. The system includes quantum effects (resonance, interference, decoherence), multi-level memory of different time scales, Markov chains with the ALGLIB library, and adaptive parameter control. The full implementation is done in MQL5 using the built-in matrix/vector types, which removes implementation barriers in MetaTrader 5.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 90): Fenwick Tree Money Management with 1D CNN in MQL5

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 90): Fenwick Tree Money Management with 1D CNN in MQL5

This article implements a Fenwick Tree (Binary Indexed Tree) for volume-aware money management inside an MQL5 Wizard Expert Advisor. We structure cumulative volume in O(log n) and apply four scaling modes—linear, conservative, aggressive, and mean-reversion—optionally gated by a lightweight 1D CNN. Practical tests compare the algorithm alone versus the CNN‑filtered approach to illustrate adaptive lot sizing and risk control under varying volume topologies.
preview
Symbolic Price Forecasting Equation Using SymPy

Symbolic Price Forecasting Equation Using SymPy

The article describes an interesting approach to algorithmic trading based on symbolic mathematical equations instead of traditional machine learning "black boxes". The author demonstrates how to transform opaque neural networks into readable mathematical equations using the SymPy library and polynomial regression, allowing for a full understanding of the logic behind trading decisions. The approach combines the computational power of ML with the transparency of classical methods, giving traders the ability to analyze, adjust, and adapt models in real time.
preview
Exchange Market Algorithm (EMA)

Exchange Market Algorithm (EMA)

The article presents a detailed analysis of the Exchange Market Algorithm (EMA) inspired by the behavior of stock market traders. The algorithm simulates stock trading, where market participants with varying levels of success employ different strategies to maximize profits.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 29): Continuation on Learning Rates with MLPs

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 29): Continuation on Learning Rates with MLPs

We wrap up our look at learning rate sensitivity to the performance of Expert Advisors by primarily examining the Adaptive Learning Rates. These learning rates aim to be customized for each parameter in a layer during the training process and so we assess potential benefits vs the expected performance toll.
preview
Determining Fair Exchange Rates Using PPP and IMF Data

Determining Fair Exchange Rates Using PPP and IMF Data

Building a purchasing power parity (PPP)-based exchange rate analysis system using Python. The author developed an algorithm with 5 methods for calculating fair exchange rates using IMF data. A practical guide to fundamental currency analysis, economic data processing, and integration with trading systems. Full code in open source.
preview
Exploring Regression Models for Causal Inference and Trading

Exploring Regression Models for Causal Inference and Trading

The article explores the possibility of using regression models in algorithmic trading. Regression models, unlike binary classification, allow for the creation of more flexible trading strategies by quantifying predicted price changes.
preview
Neural Networks in Trading: Time Series Forecasting Using Adaptive Modal Decomposition (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Time Series Forecasting Using Adaptive Modal Decomposition (Final Part)

The article discusses the adaptation and practical implementation of the ACEFormer framework using MQL5 in the context of algorithmic trading. It presents key architectural decisions, training features, and model testing results on real data.
preview
Feature Engineering for ML (Part 7): Entropy Features in Python

Feature Engineering for ML (Part 7): Entropy Features in Python

The article provides production-ready entropy estimators (Shannon, plug-in, Lempel–Ziv, Kontoyiannis) operating on tick-rule–encoded sequences. It resolves three correctness and performance issues in the original code, verifies outputs against chapter references, and extends encoding with quantile and sigma options. Users gain reproducible results and markedly improved computation speed for large bar sets.
preview
Gaussian Processes in Machine Learning (Part 1): Classification Model in MQL5

Gaussian Processes in Machine Learning (Part 1): Classification Model in MQL5

The article considers the classification model of Gaussian processes. We will start by studying its theoretical principles moving on to the practical development of the GP library in MQL5.
preview
Dingo Optimization Algorithm (DOA)

Dingo Optimization Algorithm (DOA)

The article presents a new metaheuristic method based on the hunting strategies of Australian dingoes: group attack, chase, and scavenging. Let's see how the Dingo Optimization Algorithm (DOA) performs algorithmically.
preview
Forecasting a Conditional Distribution Using MLP

Forecasting a Conditional Distribution Using MLP

In this article, we will consider an MLP-based regression model that predicts not only the conditional expectation but also the conditional variance. In other words, we will train our network to predict the entire distribution of future prices based on the input feature vector. But for this purpose we will have to implement our own loss function.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 92): Using B-Tree Indexing and a Bayesian NN in a Custom Signal Class

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 92): Using B-Tree Indexing and a Bayesian NN in a Custom Signal Class

In this article we present yet another custom MQL5 Signal Class that we are labelling ‘CSignalBTreeBayesian’. We are marrying the algorithm of a balanced tree with a neural network that is built on Bayesian principles to formulate yet another custom signal testable independently or with other signals thanks to the MQL5 Wizard.
preview
Implementation of the Quantum Reservoir Computing (QRC) circuit

Implementation of the Quantum Reservoir Computing (QRC) circuit

A revolutionary approach to machine learning in trading through quantum computing. The article demonstrates a practical implementation of an adaptive QRC system with continuous retraining for predicting market movements in real time.
preview
Duelist Algorithm

Duelist Algorithm

What if your trading strategies could learn from each other, like real fighters? Duelist Algorithm is a new optimization method where trading system parameters literally duel for the right to be called the best.
preview
Beyond GARCH (Part I): Mandelbrot's MMAR versus Engle's GARCH

Beyond GARCH (Part I): Mandelbrot's MMAR versus Engle's GARCH

This article starts the MMAR pipeline on EURUSD M5 data. We load market data via the MetaTrader5 Python API and run partition-function analysis with non-overlapping intervals to test for multifractal scaling. The result is an evidence-based decision on fractality, a prerequisite for building MMAR and for choosing whether to proceed beyond GARCH.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 93): Using Suffix Automation and an Auto Encoder in a Custom Money Management Class

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 93): Using Suffix Automation and an Auto Encoder in a Custom Money Management Class

For this article we switch to a custom MQL5 Wizard class implementation that explores Money Management. We are labelling our custom class ‘CMoneySuffixAE’ that we derive by combining the Suffix Automaton algorithm with an Autoencoder neural network. As always, this formulation is testable with MQL5 Wizard Assembled Expert Advisors that can be tuned with various entry signals and trailing stop approaches.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 30): Spotlight on Batch-Normalization in Machine Learning

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 30): Spotlight on Batch-Normalization in Machine Learning

Batch normalization is the pre-processing of data before it is fed into a machine learning algorithm, like a neural network. This is always done while being mindful of the type of Activation to be used by the algorithm. We therefore explore the different approaches that one can take in reaping the benefits of this, with the help of a wizard assembled Expert Advisor.
preview
Bison Algorithm (BIA)

Bison Algorithm (BIA)

A new optimization method, the Bison Algorithm (BIA), uses two strategies, inspired by the behavior of bison, for solving continuous problems with a single objective function. The key features of BIA are two fundamental principles borrowed from the behavior of bison: the ability to move dynamically and a defensive strategy.
preview
Quantum Neural Network in MQL5 (Part I): Creating the Include File

Quantum Neural Network in MQL5 (Part I): Creating the Include File

The article presents a new approach to creating trading systems based on quantum principles and artificial intelligence. The author describes the development of a unique neural network that goes beyond classical machine learning by combining quantum mechanics with modern AI architectures.
preview
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 95): Using Disjoint Set Union and Deep Belief Network in a Custom Signal Class

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 95): Using Disjoint Set Union and Deep Belief Network in a Custom Signal Class

For this article we switch to a custom MQL5 Wizard class that examines entry Signals. Our custom class is ‘CSignalDSUDBN’ this time around, and is coded by combining the Disjoint Set Union algorithm with a Deep Belief network. As has been the case throughout these series, our model is testable with MQL5 Wizard-Assembled Expert Advisors that can be tuned with different trailing stops and money management classes.
preview
Beyond GARCH (Part II): Measuring the Fractal Dimension of Markets

Beyond GARCH (Part II): Measuring the Fractal Dimension of Markets

Building on the partition function analysis from Part 1, this article deepens the theoretical foundation before completing the analytical pipeline. We first give a full treatment of the Hurst exponent: what it measures, what it implies about market memory, and why it matters for the MMAR. This is followed by an intuitive exploration of multifractal spectra and what f(α) reveals about volatility heterogeneity. We then move to implementation: extracting the scaling function τ(q), estimating H via R/S analysis, and fitting the multifractal spectrum across four candidate distributions. By the end, we have the complete parameter set needed to construct the MMAR process in Part 3. Part 2 of an eight-part series.
preview
Meta-Labeling the Classics (Part 2): Filtering and Sizing ADX Trades

Meta-Labeling the Classics (Part 2): Filtering and Sizing ADX Trades

The DI crossover often triggers in ranges where +DI and -DI oscillate without persistence. We build a two-layer hybrid: Optuna's TPE optimizes a regime gate over ADXR threshold, DI lookback, and minimum DI separation to maximize signal precision on a held-out window, then a Random Forest uses eleven ADX-derived features to accept or scale entries via afml.bet_sizing. The result filters ranging-market bursts and calibrates position size on EURUSD H1.
preview
Competitive Learning Algorithm (CLA)

Competitive Learning Algorithm (CLA)

The article presents the Competitive Learning Algorithm (CLA), a new metaheuristic optimization method based on simulating the educational process. The algorithm organizes the population of solutions into classes with students and teachers, where agents learn through three mechanisms: following the best in the class, using personal experience, and sharing knowledge between classes.
preview
Integrating MQL5 with Data Processing Packages (Part 9): Entropy-Based Adaptive Volatility

Integrating MQL5 with Data Processing Packages (Part 9): Entropy-Based Adaptive Volatility

This work presents an end-to-end pipeline: collect MetaTrader 5 data, engineer entropy/volatility/trend features, train a PyTorch classifier, and expose predictions through a Flask API. An MQL5 EA posts rolling prices each tick, receives probability and regime, and applies adaptive position sizing and stop distances. The result is a clear recipe for integrating ML inference with MetaTrader 5.
preview
Downloading International Monetary Fund Data Using Python

Downloading International Monetary Fund Data Using Python

Downloading international monetary fund data in Python: Mining IMF data for use in macroeconomic currency strategies. How can macroeconomics help an ordinary and an algorithmic trader?
preview
Beyond GARCH (Part IV): Partition Analysis in MQL5

Beyond GARCH (Part IV): Partition Analysis in MQL5

In this article, we shift from Python research to native MQL5 engineering. We build the first module of the MMAR library: a shared constants header, an SVD-based OLS regression class, a Generalized Hurst Exponent estimator, and the partition analysis engine that computes the partition function, extracts tau(q), estimates H via zero-crossing interpolation, and scores multifractality through three diagnostic tests. Tested on 500,000 bars of EURUSD M10, the engine correctly classifies the data as multifractal in under four seconds. Part 4 of an eight-part series. Part 5 fits the tau(q) curve to four candidate distributions via the Legendre transform.
preview
Building an Object-Oriented ONNX Inference Engine in MQL5

Building an Object-Oriented ONNX Inference Engine in MQL5

This article shows how to run Python-trained models natively in MetaTrader 5 via the terminal's ONNX functions. We build an MQL5 class that encapsulates session creation, fixes input/output tensor shapes, applies min-max feature normalization to mirror training, and executes OnnxRun once per bar to protect the CPU, the result is a reliable, maintainable inference path for live charts and the Strategy Tester without sockets or DLLs.