Developer-first API for stock, options, and crypto trading, enabling algorithmic trading, app development, and embedded investing services.
Features
- Broker API — End-to-end brokerage platform that enables businesses to embed investing services directly into their applications. Includes sub-accounting (OmniSub), fully paid securities lending, and high-yield cash management with up to $2.5M in FDIC sweep coverage.
- Trading API — Execute algorithmic trading strategies with commission-free stock and options trading. Supports margin and short selling with up to 4X intraday and 2X overnight buying power, plus OAuth integration for seamless app connectivity.
- Multi-Leg Options Trading — API access to trade, backtest, and execute complex options strategies including spreads, straddles, and condors with zero commissions. Includes real-time and historical options data for comprehensive strategy development.
- 24/5 Extended Hours Trading — Always-on trading capability with REST/FIX integration, automatic session-aware order routing, and real-time overnight data. Serves global users in their local hours beyond standard market sessions.
- Market Data — Real-time and historical market data for stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrency. Free tier available for backtesting strategies in paper trading before deploying with live capital.
- MCP Server (AI Trading) — Execute trades powered by AI insights using natural language. Enables developers to integrate AI-driven trading capabilities into their applications and workflows.
Use Cases
Algorithmic Trading & Quantitative Research
Build, backtest, and deploy automated trading strategies using Python, .NET/C#, Go, or Node SDKs. Access 5,000+ Easy-to-Borrow securities with $0 borrow fees, 1.5ms order processing, and 99.99% system uptime for high-frequency and systematic trading. Target Audience: Algorithmic traders, quantitative hedge funds, prop trading firms, and individual quants
Fintech App Development
Embed commission-free stock, options, and crypto trading into fintech applications using the Broker API. Includes OAuth integration, sub-accounting infrastructure, and regulatory compliance support for launching investment features quickly. Target Audience: Fintech startups, digital wallet providers, robo-advisor platforms, and neobanks
Tokenization & Digital Asset Platforms
Leverage Alpaca's Instant Tokenization Network to enable tokenized equities to trade as a connected market with instant in-kind mint/redemption, deep liquidity, and 24/7 API access for crypto exchanges and tokenization platforms. Target Audience: Crypto exchanges, tokenization platforms, and blockchain-based investment services
Broker-Dealer Infrastructure
Utilize self-clearing operations as members of DTCC, FICC, and OCC for trade processing, settlement, and custody. Offer clients securities lending, high-yield cash accounts, and comprehensive portfolio management through a single API integration. Target Audience: Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors, and institutional asset managers
Pros
- Commission-free stock and options trading with no per-trade fees for retail API users, significantly reducing costs for active traders and algorithmic strategies
- Developer-first design with comprehensive SDKs in Python, .NET/C#, Go, and Node.js, plus full API reference documentation and community support via Slack, Forum, and GitHub
- Self-clearing brokerage infrastructure as members of DTCC, FICC, and OCC, providing institutional-grade trade processing, settlement, and custody at reduced costs
- Enterprise-grade security and compliance: ISO 27001:2022 certified, SOC 2 Type II controls, FINRA-regulated, SIPC protection up to $500,000, MFA, GDPR compliant, and EU-US DPF certified
- High-performance execution with 99.99% system uptime, 1.5ms order processing powered by OMS v2, and 5,000+ Easy-to-Borrow securities with $0 borrow fees
Cons
- Options trading carries inherent high risk with potential for significant losses; not suitable for all investors and requires understanding of complex derivatives
- Extended hours and overnight trading (24/5) may experience price fluctuations, partial executions, or delays due to lower liquidity and higher volatility outside regular market hours
- Margin trading involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors; borrowing amplifies both gains and losses, requiring careful consideration of risk tolerance
- Geographic restrictions may apply for certain services, particularly tokenization features, based on local regulatory requirements limiting global accessibility
