Quick answer
Automated futures trading uses software to place futures orders through your broker according to a defined strategy. It works best with verified live results, a hard per-trade risk cap, a daily loss limit, and a broker with reliable API execution. Futures are leveraged — you can lose more than your initial investment.
How a futures trading bot works
- Reads live exchange data from your broker feed.
- Evaluates strategy rules and decides whether to trade.
- Checks the order against risk limits and available margin.
- Sends the order through the broker's API and logs the fill.
What to look for in a futures trading bot
- Live, auditable results — not just backtests.
- Position sizing that respects margin and contract size.
- Daily loss limits and a kill switch.
- No need to run your own VPS or terminal.
- Clear, flat pricing with no profit share.
Futures-specific risks
- Leverage magnifies both gains and losses.
- Contract rollovers and session gaps can move prices sharply.
- Margin calls can close positions at a loss.
- Some strategies need higher recommended balances than others.
Next steps
See full plan details on the pricing page, learn how the platform works, or read our AI trading bot comparison. Trading involves substantial risk; see our legal disclaimers.
FAQ
What is automated futures trading?
It is the use of software to place futures trades in your brokerage account according to predefined rules, without clicking each order manually.
Is automated futures trading legal in the US?
Yes, when trading through a CFTC-registered, NFA-member broker on your own account.
How much money do I need?
It depends on the contract and strategy. Micro contracts lower the entry point, and each strategy on The Automated Trader lists its recommended starting balance.
Can I run multiple futures strategies at once?
On The Automated Trader, Pro runs up to 3 strategies and Portfolio up to 5 from the same 19-strategy library.
