Articles on trading system automation in MQL5

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Read articles on the trading systems with a wide variety of ideas at the core. Learn how to use statistical methods and patterns on candlestick charts, how to filter signals and where to use semaphore indicators.

The MQL5 Wizard will help you create robots without programming to quickly check your trading ideas. Use the Wizard to learn about genetic algorithms.

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Python-MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester (Part 04): Tester 101

Python-MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester (Part 04): Tester 101

In this fascinating article, we build our very first trading robot in the simulator and run a strategy testing action that resembles how the MetaTrader 5 strategy tester works, then compare the outcome produced in a custom simulation against our favorite terminal.
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MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 4): Developing a History Management EX5 Library

MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 4): Developing a History Management EX5 Library

Learn how to retrieve, process, classify, sort, analyze, and manage closed positions, orders, and deal histories using MQL5 by creating an expansive History Management EX5 Library in a detailed step-by-step approach.
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Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 92): Adaptive Forecasting in Frequency and Time Domains

Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 92): Adaptive Forecasting in Frequency and Time Domains

The authors of the FreDF method experimentally confirmed the advantage of combined forecasting in the frequency and time domains. However, the use of the weight hyperparameter is not optimal for non-stationary time series. In this article, we will get acquainted with the method of adaptive combination of forecasts in frequency and time domains.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 3): Architecture revision

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 3): Architecture revision

We have already made some progress in developing a multi-currency EA with several strategies working in parallel. Considering the accumulated experience, let's review the architecture of our solution and try to improve it before we go too far ahead.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 26): Towards the future (I)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 26): Towards the future (I)

Today we will take our order system to the next level. But before that, we need to solve a few problems. Now we have some questions that are related to how we want to work and what things we do during the trading day.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 34): Turning Raw Market Data into Predictive Models Using an Advanced Ingestion Pipeline

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 34): Turning Raw Market Data into Predictive Models Using an Advanced Ingestion Pipeline

Have you ever missed a sudden market spike or been caught off‑guard when one occurred? The best way to anticipate live events is to learn from historical patterns. Intending to train an ML model, this article begins by showing you how to create a script in MetaTrader 5 that ingests historical data and sends it to Python for storage—laying the foundation for your spike‑detection system. Read on to see each step in action.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 61): Using Patterns of ADX and CCI with Supervised Learning

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 61): Using Patterns of ADX and CCI with Supervised Learning

The ADX Oscillator and CCI oscillator are trend following and momentum indicators that can be paired when developing an Expert Advisor. We look at how this can be systemized by using all the 3 main training modes of Machine Learning. Wizard Assembled Expert Advisors allow us to evaluate the patterns presented by these two indicators, and we start by looking at how Supervised-Learning can be applied with these Patterns.
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Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 84): Reversible Normalization (RevIN)

Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 84): Reversible Normalization (RevIN)

We already know that pre-processing of the input data plays a major role in the stability of model training. To process "raw" input data online, we often use a batch normalization layer. But sometimes we need a reverse procedure. In this article, we discuss one of the possible approaches to solving this problem.
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Neural Networks in Trading: State Space Models

Neural Networks in Trading: State Space Models

A large number of the models we have reviewed so far are based on the Transformer architecture. However, they may be inefficient when dealing with long sequences. And in this article, we will get acquainted with an alternative direction of time series forecasting based on state space models.
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Fractal-Based Algorithm (FBA)

Fractal-Based Algorithm (FBA)

The article presents a new metaheuristic method based on a fractal approach to partitioning the search space for solving optimization problems. The algorithm sequentially identifies and separates promising areas, creating a self-similar fractal structure that concentrates computing resources on the most promising areas. A unique mutation mechanism aimed at better solutions ensures an optimal balance between exploration and exploitation of the search space, significantly increasing the efficiency of the algorithm.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Two-Dimensional Connection Space Models (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Two-Dimensional Connection Space Models (Final Part)

We continue to explore the innovative Chimera framework – a two-dimensional state-space model that uses neural network technologies to analyze multidimensional time series. This method provides high forecasting accuracy with low computational cost.
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Visualizing deals on a chart (Part 2): Data graphical display

Visualizing deals on a chart (Part 2): Data graphical display

Here we are going to develop a script from scratch that simplifies unloading print screens of deals for analyzing trading entries. All the necessary information on a single deal is to be conveniently displayed on one chart with the ability to draw different timeframes.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Multi-Task Learning Based on the ResNeXt Model

Neural Networks in Trading: Multi-Task Learning Based on the ResNeXt Model

A multi-task learning framework based on ResNeXt optimizes the analysis of financial data, taking into account its high dimensionality, nonlinearity, and time dependencies. The use of group convolution and specialized heads allows the model to effectively extract key features from the input data.
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Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 5): Adding a Collapsible Sidebar with Chat Popups

Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 5): Adding a Collapsible Sidebar with Chat Popups

In Part 5 of our MQL5 AI trading system series, we enhance the ChatGPT-integrated Expert Advisor by introducing a collapsible sidebar, improving navigation with small and large history popups for seamless chat selection, while maintaining multiline input handling, persistent encrypted chat storage, and AI-driven trade signal generation from chart data.
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Price movement discretization methods in Python

Price movement discretization methods in Python

We will look at price discretization methods using Python + MQL5. In this article, I will share my practical experience developing a Python library that implements a wide range of approaches to bar formation — from classic Volume and Range bars to more exotic methods like Renko and Kagi. We will consider three-line breakout candles and range bars analyzing their statistics and trying to define how else the prices can be represented discretely.
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Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 8): UI Polish with Animations, Timing Metrics, and Response Management Tools

Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 8): UI Polish with Animations, Timing Metrics, and Response Management Tools

In this article, we enhance the AI-powered trading system in MQL5 with user interface improvements, including loading animations for request preparation and thinking phases, as well as timing metrics displayed in responses for better feedback. We add response management tools like regenerate buttons to re-query the AI and export options to save the last response to a file, streamlining interaction.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 80): Graph Transformer Generative Adversarial Model (GTGAN)

Neural networks made easy (Part 80): Graph Transformer Generative Adversarial Model (GTGAN)

In this article, I will get acquainted with the GTGAN algorithm, which was introduced in January 2024 to solve complex problems of generation architectural layouts with graph constraints.
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Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) algorithm: Modification

Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) algorithm: Modification

In the second part of the article, we will continue developing a modified version of the AOS (Atomic Orbital Search) algorithm focusing on specific operators to improve its efficiency and adaptability. After analyzing the fundamentals and mechanics of the algorithm, we will discuss ideas for improving its performance and the ability to analyze complex solution spaces, proposing new approaches to extend its functionality as an optimization tool.
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Reusing Invalidated Orderblocks As Mitigation Blocks (SMC)

Reusing Invalidated Orderblocks As Mitigation Blocks (SMC)

In this article, we explore how previously invalidated orderblocks can be reused as mitigation blocks within Smart Money Concepts (SMC). These zones reveal where institutional traders re-enter the market after a failed orderblock, providing high-probability areas for trade continuation in the dominant trend.
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Trading Options Without Options (Part 1): Basic Theory and Emulation Through Underlying Assets

Trading Options Without Options (Part 1): Basic Theory and Emulation Through Underlying Assets

The article describes a variant of options emulation through an underlying asset implemented in the MQL5 programming language. The pros and cons of the chosen approach are compared with real exchange options using the example of the FORTS futures market of the MOEX Moscow exchange and the Bybit crypto exchange.
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Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 10): Matrix Factorization

Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 10): Matrix Factorization

Factorization is a mathematical process used to gain insights into the attributes of data. When we apply factorization to large sets of market data — organized in rows and columns — we can uncover patterns and characteristics of the market. Factorization is a powerful tool, and this article will show how you can use it within the MetaTrader 5 terminal, through the MQL5 API, to gain more profound insights into your market data.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Practical Results of the TEMPO Method

Neural Networks in Trading: Practical Results of the TEMPO Method

We continue our acquaintance with the TEMPO method. In this article we will evaluate the actual effectiveness of the proposed approaches on real historical data.
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Trading with the MQL5 Economic Calendar (Part 5): Enhancing the Dashboard with Responsive Controls and Filter Buttons

Trading with the MQL5 Economic Calendar (Part 5): Enhancing the Dashboard with Responsive Controls and Filter Buttons

In this article, we create buttons for currency pair filters, importance levels, time filters, and a cancel option to improve dashboard control. These buttons are programmed to respond dynamically to user actions, allowing seamless interaction. We also automate their behavior to reflect real-time changes on the dashboard. This enhances the overall functionality, mobility, and responsiveness of the panel.
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Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 6): Scoring System

Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 6): Scoring System

In this article, we propose a scoring system for mean-reversion strategies based on statistical arbitrage of cointegrated stocks. The article suggests criteria that go from liquidity and transaction costs to the number of cointegration ranks and time to mean-reversion, while taking into account the strategic criteria of data frequency (timeframe) and the lookback period for cointegration tests, which are evaluated before the score ranking properly. The files required for the reproduction of the backtest are provided, and their results are commented on as well.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 59): Using Geometric Asymmetry to Identify Precision Breakouts from Fractal Consolidation

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 59): Using Geometric Asymmetry to Identify Precision Breakouts from Fractal Consolidation

While studying a wide range of breakout setups, I noticed that failed breakouts were rarely caused by a lack of volatility, but more often by weak internal structure. That observation led to the framework presented in this article. The approach identifies patterns where the final price leg shows superior length, steepness, and speed—clear signs of momentum accumulation ahead of directional expansion. By detecting these subtle geometric imbalances within consolidation, traders can anticipate higher-probability breakouts before price exits the range. Continue reading to see how this fractal-based, geometric framework translates structural imbalance into precise breakout signals.
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Exploring Machine Learning in Unidirectional Trend Trading Using Gold as a Case Study

Exploring Machine Learning in Unidirectional Trend Trading Using Gold as a Case Study

This article discusses an approach to trading only in the chosen direction (buy or sell). For this purpose, the technique of causal inference and machine learning are used.
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Integrating Computer Vision into Trading in MQL5 (Part 1): Creating Basic Functions

Integrating Computer Vision into Trading in MQL5 (Part 1): Creating Basic Functions

The EURUSD forecasting system with the use of computer vision and deep learning. Learn how convolutional neural networks can recognize complex price patterns in the foreign exchange market and predict exchange rate movements with up to 54% accuracy. The article shares the methodology for creating an algorithm that uses artificial intelligence technologies for visual analysis of charts instead of traditional technical indicators. The author demonstrates the process of transforming price data into "images", their processing by a neural network, and a unique opportunity to peer into the "consciousness" of AI through activation maps and attention heatmaps. Practical Python code using the MetaTrader 5 library allows readers to reproduce the system and apply it in their own trading.
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From Simple Close Buttons to a Rule-Based Risk Dashboard in MQL5

From Simple Close Buttons to a Rule-Based Risk Dashboard in MQL5

Build a rule-based on-chart risk management panel in MetaTrader 5 using the MQL5 Standard Library. The guide covers a CAppDialog-based GUI, manual event routing, and an automated update loop. You will bind UI events to CTrade to execute conditional closures, show net floating P/L, and read automated targets directly from the chart.
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MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 11): Kelly Criterion, Prop Firm Integration, and CPCV Dynamic Backtesting

MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 11): Kelly Criterion, Prop Firm Integration, and CPCV Dynamic Backtesting

The bet-sizing signal from Part 10 is concurrency-corrected but carries no payoff-ratio adjustment, no response to a hard drawdown budget, and no validation across combinatorial paths. This article covers three additions: a two-stage architecture in which a Kelly payoff multiplier is applied on top of get_signal, preserving the concurrency correction while incorporating win/loss asymmetry; a prop firm integration layer that calibrates the sigmoid w parameter continuously from the remaining drawdown budget under FundedNext Stellar 2-Step rules; and a CPCV backtest framework that simulates a fresh account state across all φ[N, k] paths, producing a Sharpe distribution and a PBO audit.
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Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 17): Ticks and more ticks (I)

Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 17): Ticks and more ticks (I)

Here we will see how to implement something really interesting, but at the same time very difficult due to certain points that can be very confusing. The worst thing that can happen is that some traders who consider themselves professionals do not know anything about the importance of these concepts in the capital market. Well, although we focus here on programming, understanding some of the issues involved in market trading is paramount to what we are going to implement.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Memory Augmented Context-Aware Learning (MacroHFT) for Cryptocurrency Markets

Neural Networks in Trading: Memory Augmented Context-Aware Learning (MacroHFT) for Cryptocurrency Markets

I invite you to explore the MacroHFT framework, which applies context-aware reinforcement learning and memory to improve high-frequency cryptocurrency trading decisions using macroeconomic data and adaptive agents.
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Time series clustering in causal inference

Time series clustering in causal inference

Clustering algorithms in machine learning are important unsupervised learning algorithms that can divide the original data into groups with similar observations. By using these groups, you can analyze the market for a specific cluster, search for the most stable clusters using new data, and make causal inferences. The article proposes an original method for time series clustering in Python.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part V): Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part V): Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Today, we will discuss enhancing security for the Trading Administrator Panel currently under development. We will explore how to implement MQL5 in a new security strategy, integrating the Telegram API for two-factor authentication (2FA). This discussion will provide valuable insights into the application of MQL5 in reinforcing security measures. Additionally, we will examine the MathRand function, focusing on its functionality and how it can be effectively utilized within our security framework. Continue reading to discover more!
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From Matrices to Models: How to Build an ML Pipeline in MQL5 and Export It to ONNX

From Matrices to Models: How to Build an ML Pipeline in MQL5 and Export It to ONNX

The article describes the arrangement of a coordinated ML pipeline in MetaTrader 5 with separation of roles: Python trains and exports the model to ONNX, MQL5 reproduces normalization and PCA via matrix/vector and performs inference. This approach makes the model's inputs stable and verifiable, and the MetaTrader 5 strategy tester provides metrics for analyzing the system behavior.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 27): Expert Advisor project — C_Mouse class (I)

Developing a Replay System (Part 27): Expert Advisor project — C_Mouse class (I)

In this article we will implement the C_Mouse class. It provides the ability to program at the highest level. However, talking about high-level or low-level programming languages is not about including obscene words or jargon in the code. It's the other way around. When we talk about high-level or low-level programming, we mean how easy or difficult the code is for other programmers to understand.
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Chaos theory in trading (Part 2): Diving deeper

Chaos theory in trading (Part 2): Diving deeper

We continue our dive into chaos theory in financial markets. This time I will consider its applicability to the analysis of currencies and other assets.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Dual-Attention-Based Trend Prediction Model

Neural Networks in Trading: Dual-Attention-Based Trend Prediction Model

We continue the discussion about the use of piecewise linear representation of time series, which was started in the previous article. Today we will see how to combine this method with other approaches to time series analysis to improve the price trend prediction quality.
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Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 2): Expert Advisor, Backtests, and Optimization

Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 2): Expert Advisor, Backtests, and Optimization

This article presents a sample Expert Advisor implementation for trading a basket of four Nasdaq stocks. The stocks were initially filtered based on Pearson correlation tests. The filtered group was then tested for cointegration with Johansen tests. Finally, the cointegrated spread was tested for stationarity with the ADF and KPSS tests. Here we will see some notes about this process and the results of the backtests after a small optimization.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 13): DBSCAN for Expert Signal Class

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 13): DBSCAN for Expert Signal Class

Density Based Spatial Clustering for Applications with Noise is an unsupervised form of grouping data that hardly requires any input parameters, save for just 2, which when compared to other approaches like k-means, is a boon. We delve into how this could be constructive for testing and eventually trading with Wizard assembled Expert Advisers
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Neural networks made easy (Part 60): Online Decision Transformer (ODT)

Neural networks made easy (Part 60): Online Decision Transformer (ODT)

The last two articles were devoted to the Decision Transformer method, which models action sequences in the context of an autoregressive model of desired rewards. In this article, we will look at another optimization algorithm for this method.